Qi deficient constitution (Qi Xu)
On this page
- Overview
- Recognising the pattern
- Dietary approach
- Foods to favour
- Foods to limit
- Lifestyle
- Related pages
1. Overview
Qi deficiency (Qi Xu) is a state of insufficient functional energy. The Spleen and Lung qi are most often involved. People with this pattern feel tired easily, lack stamina, are prone to colds and feel worse after exertion. Diet must rebuild qi rather than drain it.
2. Recognising the pattern
- Tiredness, especially after activity
- Breathlessness on mild exertion; soft, low voice
- Pale complexion, pale lips and nails
- Spontaneous sweating during the day
- Loose stools or sluggish digestion
- Frequent colds and slow recovery
- Tongue: pale, swollen, with teeth-marks at the edges
- Pulse: weak, especially at the right wrist
3. Dietary approach
The qi-deficient diet is warm, cooked, regular and easily digestible. Eating raw, cold or skipped meals worsens qi deficiency. Build energy gradually with warming, sweet, qi-tonifying foods.
4. Foods to favour
- Cooked grains: rice, oats, millet, sweet potato
- Chinese yam (shan yao), lotus seeds, jujube (red dates)
- Cooked vegetables: pumpkin, carrot, squash, leek
- Warming meats: chicken, beef, lamb (in stews)
- Eggs (especially soft-cooked)
- Goji berries, longan fruit, ginger
- Mushrooms (shiitake, white button)
- Bone broth and slow-cooked soups
5. Foods to limit
- Raw vegetables and salads (especially in winter)
- Cold drinks, smoothies, iced food
- Excess raw fruit, particularly tropical (banana, mango)
- Refined sugar, white bread, processed snacks
- Skipping breakfast or eating very late
- Excessive talking and overworking, both deplete qi
6. Lifestyle
Regular sleep before 11pm, gentle daily exercise (walking, qi gong, t'ai chi but not exhausting workouts), warm clothing, avoiding chronic overwork and worry.
