Taking care of the Gallbladder

I found a simple article in the internet about taking care of the gallbladder, but I had to edit it not only to shorten it but to make it fit to the lifestyle of Filipinos who are workaholics and wouldn't usually notice the time.  I therefore prioritized the hows of taking care of the gallbladder according to the lifestyle I just mentioned:

1.  Know What Time It Is

In TCM or Traditional Chinese Medicine, every organ is seen to have 2 hours out of every 12 where its Qi is at its peak. The time when the Gallbladder’s energy is its most abundant is between 11pm-1am. During these 2 hours, it is helpful if you can refrain from drinking alcohol or other intoxicants, as they place unnecessary stress on the Gallbladder. It also helps the Gallbladder if you can rest the body as much as possible in these 2 hours.

2.  Avoid Greasy, Fatty, Rich or Spicy Foods

Sharp abdominal pains after eating these types of foods points to Gallbladder stones and other problems. Because the Gallbladder is responsible for releasing bile which helps break down fats, you want to keep intake of these foods to a minimum and not overload your Gallbladder.

3.  Express Emotions Freely

This may be easier said than done, but any stagnation or blockage in TCM is what causes disease and pain. This includes emotions, so it is important to have a healthy emotional life, and always try to express what you are feeling instead of allowing it to build up. Emotions specific to Gallbladder are anger (frustration, resentment, etc..) associated with its partner, the Liver. Emotional changes such as depression (which is considered anger turned inward) can also point to a Gallbladder imbalance.

4. Eat Foods that are beneficial to the Gallbladder

• Broccoli
• Rocket
• Beetroot
• Oranges
• Jasmine tea
• Green tea
• Radishes
• Basil
• Garlic
• Cayenne (eat moderately)
• Dill
• Chive
• Cardamom
• Lemon
• Dandelion root
• Licorice root
• Cumquat
• Grapefruit
• Kale
• Carrot
• Celery
• Peppermint tea
• Chrysanthemum tea
• Tea with orange peel

5. Exercise and Keep Moving

The Gallbladder meridian runs bilaterally along the body starting at the outside corner of the eye (at the end of the eyebrow) and runs along the side of the body, ending at the corner of the nail bed of the 4th toe. Therefore, any exercise that stimulates the sides of the body are beneficial for the flow of Qi and to help remove any blockages in the Gallbladder  organ and meridian. Side stretches are ideal. There are many Chinese internal as well as external martial arts that are excellent for mind, body and spirit. Tai Chi and Qi Gong are 2 examples of internal martial arts that are beneficial for moving Qi in all of the meridians, as well as strengthening the body and the mind. Movement is the most important aspect for keeping your Qi from stagnating, so even by just walking the Qi will keep moving.

6. Avoid foods that hurt the Gallbladder

• Deep fried food – (Greasy)
• Alcohol – (Damp)
• Spicy foods (may be eaten in moderation)
• Hot foods like lamb and beef
• Lamb
• Beef
• Curry

It is also beneficial to cleanse these organs by drinking lots of water and eating things like fresh greens to nourish the Gallbladder and Liver.

If you are experiencing any Gallbladder symptoms, or have been told by your doctor that you should consider surgery, explore the non surgical options to rebalance your body and heal your Gallbladder.

The wonderful thing about TCM is that it was developed to be a system that focuses on prevention. That is why, it is not only the oldest medical system on earth, but it teaches an entire way of life, teaching how to live in harmony with nature, eating with the seasons, moderation in work and play, exercise and emotional wellness. By practicing these basic principles, the Chinese believe that you can maintain optimum health so that illness never has a chance to develop.