Why It’s More Than Just “Talking Sh*t”

For those who’ve been in the clinic, you know I’m always talking about… well, your poo. Why? Because when it comes to understanding your health, your bowel habits are like an open book—they tell me so much about what’s happening inside your body and help me form a clear picture of how to treat you.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), your bowels are a key indicator of your overall health and a vital clue that helps uncover the root cause of your condition. But they’re not the only clue—other key indicators include your energy levels, sleep patterns, the appearance of your tongue, and the quality of your pulse. Together, these signs help form a pattern that guides diagnosis and treatment.

So yes, when I ask about your bathroom habits, it’s not just small talk—it’s diagnosis! Simply “talking sh*t” could unlock the mystery of your body and lead us to the solution you’ve been searching for.

What Can Your Bowels Tell Me?

From a TCM perspective, your digestive system is central to your health. The Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine all work together to process food, extract nutrients, and eliminate waste. When something is out of balance, it often shows up in your bowels.

• Constipation: This could indicate dryness, heat, or stagnation in your body. Stress, dehydration, or a diet lacking in fiber may play a role, but so can an underlying energy imbalance.
• Loose Stools or Diarrhea: Often tied to Spleen Qi deficiency or dampness in the system. This is common when the body struggles to process food properly.
• Irregular Patterns: Alternating between constipation and diarrhea? This often reflects stress or Liver Qi stagnation disrupting your digestive harmony.

How Chinese Medicine Helps

The beauty of TCM is its ability to look beyond symptoms and treat the root cause. By understanding what’s going on in your gut and connecting it with other key indicators like your energy, sleep, mood, tongue, and pulse, I can tailor a treatment plan to restore balance and promote healthy digestion.

When we address bowel movements—whether it’s easing constipation, relieving diarrhea, or creating regularity—the entire body benefits. A healthy digestive system is essential for absorbing nutrients, eliminating toxins, and maintaining qi (energy flow). By improving bowel function, the body is better able to repair itself, regain balance, and function at its best.

Here’s how Chinese medicine supports this process:

• Acupuncture: Targeted points help regulate your digestive system and relieve discomfort, whether it’s bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
• Herbal Medicine: Formulas are customized to address your unique symptoms and underlying imbalances, whether you need to clear heat, expel dampness, or support your Spleen.
• Dietary Guidance: You don’t have to give up everything you love, but small changes—like incorporating warming foods or avoiding excessive raw and cold foods—can make a huge difference.
• Lifestyle Support: Stress management, hydration, and regular movement all play a role in keeping your bowels happy.

Why It Matters

Your bowels do more than just eliminate waste—they’re a reflection of your body’s overall harmony. By paying attention to what your gut is telling you, we can catch imbalances early and prevent them from developing into bigger issues.

So next time I ask, “How are your bowels?” don’t be shy! Whether it’s a quick chat about frequency, consistency, or color, it’s all part of the process of helping you feel your best.

Let’s keep the conversation flowing—literally and figuratively!

Want to read a little more check out my digestive conditions page.