Balancing Blood Sugar in Late Summer

Welcome to the Late Summer! This vibrant and transformative season serves as a bridge between the warmth of summer and the cooler embrace of autumn. In the context of Chinese Medicine, Late Summer is intricately linked to the Earth element, which symbolizes stability, nourishment, and grounding. This period is particularly associated with the Spleen, a vital organ that plays a crucial role not only in the digestion of food but also in the processing and assimilation of information, emotions, and experiences. The Spleen is considered essential for maintaining the body's overall vitality and energy levels.

As the academic year begins, many individuals may find themselves experiencing a range of symptoms, such as cravings for sugary foods or a general sense of sluggishness and fatigue. These sensations can often be indicative of a weakened Spleen qi, which can occur due to a variety of factors, including seasonal changes, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices. When the Spleen is functioning optimally, it helps to convert the food we eat into energy and supports our cognitive functions, making it easier to process new information and adapt to changes in our daily routines.

To help strengthen your Spleen qi and restore balance during this transitional period, consider incorporating some effective practices into your daily routine. Engaging in weight lifting can be particularly beneficial, as it not only builds physical strength but also enhances your overall energy levels and metabolic function. Additionally, taking leisurely walks outdoors can help you connect with nature, promote circulation, and improve your mood, all of which contribute to a healthier Spleen.

When it comes to nutrition, focusing on warm, nourishing foods is key. Foods such as pumpkin and sweet potatoes are excellent choices, as they are rich in essential nutrients and have a naturally warming effect on the body. Enhancing these dishes with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg can further stimulate digestion and invigorate your Spleen, making them perfect additions to your meals during Late Summer. These spices not only add flavor but also possess various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to enhance metabolic processes.

In contrast, it is advisable to avoid cold foods and beverages, which can dampen the digestive fire and weaken the Spleen's function. It's time to say goodbye to your iced lattes and salads, and opt for warm teas and soups! By making these conscious choices, you can support your body's natural rhythms and enhance your overall well-being as you transition into the new season.

A weak Spleen can lead to a variety of symptoms that significantly impact overall health and well-being. Common manifestations include brain fog, which is characterized by a lack of mental clarity and focus, weight gain that can be difficult to manage, and persistent fatigue that doesn't seem to improve with rest. These symptoms can often overlap with issues related to blood sugar imbalances, particularly during the peri-menopausal phase of life. During this transitional period, many individuals experience hormonal fluctuations that can lead to increased insulin resistance, making it even more critical to pay attention to blood sugar levels.

Individuals who find themselves experiencing energy dips after meals may notice a sudden drop in vitality, often accompanied by feelings of lethargy or a craving for sugary snacks to regain that lost energy. This cycle can perpetuate a rollercoaster effect on blood sugar levels, leading to further complications. Additionally, a lack of appetite in the morning can signal that the body is struggling to regulate its energy levels effectively, which might be linked to underlying Spleen health and its role in digestion and nutrient absorption.

Moreover, symptoms such as night sweats and heart palpitations can be particularly distressing. Night sweats may disrupt sleep patterns, leading to further fatigue during the day, while heart palpitations can cause anxiety and a feeling of unease. Both of these symptoms can indicate that your blood sugar levels are fluctuating in ways that may need to be addressed. It is essential to recognize these signs as potential indicators of an imbalance that could benefit from dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, or even professional guidance.

Addressing these concerns holistically can involve a comprehensive approach that includes monitoring dietary intake, particularly the balance of carbohydrates and proteins, as well as incorporating regular physical activity to help manage insulin sensitivity. Herbal remedies and supplements that support Spleen function may also be beneficial, alongside practices such as mindfulness and stress reduction techniques. By taking these steps, individuals can work towards stabilizing their blood sugar levels, enhancing their energy, and improving their overall quality of life during this critical phase of health.

5 Ways to Balance Your Blood Sugar:

1. Don’t Skip Meals: Eat a balance of veggies, lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs, and try not to eat anything after 7PM.

2. Move More: A 10-15 minute post-meal walk or 10 body-weight squats every hour helps decrease blood sugar spikes.

3. Stay Hydrated: Aim for 8 cups of water with electrolytes daily.

4. Prioritize Sleep: If you’re doing “all of the things” and still not sleeping well, let’s talk!  Acupuncture can really help improve sleep quality.

5. Manage Stress: Easier said than done, right?  Acupuncture is also an amazing way to reset your nervous system when you just can’t seem to chill out.

Hi, I'm Lorrie Fissenden, Acupuncturist and Herbalist in Carbondale, Colorado. I specialize in helping women like you to thrive during peri-menopause. When you're experiencing symptoms like mood changes, sleep disturbances, hot flashes, headaches, bloating, and brain fog, you can feel like life has fallen off of the rails. I'm here to guide you through this amazing transition and help you feel like yourself again. Want to work together? Click here to schedule your free consultation. I look forward to meeting you!