Chinese medicine regards the Kidneys like the roots of a tree. Functionally, they are in charge of growth and development, reproduction and circulation, especially for the lower part of the body. They also contain the original essence to support the body throughout a person’s entire life. Looking after the health of your Kidneys especially as you age is vital to having a long and healthy life.

The following symptoms often occur when the Kidney organ is weak…
Lower back weakness and pain, especially after prolonged work, sitting, standing or walking.
Chronic pain in the knee, ankle and soles of the feet.
Frequent urination, day or night.
Insomnia, waking frequently throughout the night or waking up early.
Lack of energy, fatigue, poor memory and concentration.
For men, low libido and impotence.
For women, low libido, early or prolonged menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweating, dry skin.
Delayed periods longer than 30 days, together with PCOS (delayed or no periods), endometriosis and/or fertility issues.

A few ways to look after your kidneys
Protect and don't overuse your lower back.
If your back is injured, seek treatment and fix the problem as soon as possible.
Avoid exposing your lower back, knees and soles to cold, for example sitting on cold and hard floors, walking barefoot.
Regulate your sexual activity, don't over do it.
Avoid sitting, standing and walking for long periods of time, take regular breaks.
After labour or miscarriage, seek Chinese medicine treatment to rebalance the circulation in your lower back.

Which foods benefit the Kidneys?
You can eat the following foods more often to help build up your Kidney energy:
Goji berries
Beef or lamb bone soup
Prawns and scallops
Sea cucumber
Venison
Walnuts
Black beans
Chinese black mushrooms
Chives