A person who is Qi Deficiency (气虚体质) tends to fall sick easier as compared to his/her peers. You will also find your voice softer and sometimes (or oftentimes), you need to raise your voice so that people can hear you properly. You also has poorer adaptability to warmer and cooler weather.
In TCM, qi is what protects our body from virus. Thus if you are deficient in qi, you will find yourself fall sick easily when the surrounding temperature is low or when you are constantly blown by air-con directly.
The following are the main food / herbs that a Qi Deficiency type person can consume to help you build and strengthen qi:
- Chinese yam (山药)
- Glutinous rice
- Rice (from China, known as 大米, not from Thailand)
- Lotus seeds
- Dates
- Walnut
- Sweet potato
- Ginger
- Honey
- Chicken meat
Food / herbs to avoid or consume less are:
- Radish
- Watermelon
- Bitter gourd
- Cold drinks
Additional Tips for Qi Deficiency Type Person
Do take note when you are in air conditioned place, it is better to wear an additional outer wear such as Jacket or sweater to conserve your Qi. When external temperature is cool, your body will use your Qi to keep you warm, hence, keeping yourself warm with extra clothing will help to conserve the Qi to be used for your immune system instead.
The most effective way to regain Qi is to exercise regularly. You can explore going for slow jogging, or brisk walk for a start. Ideal duration is about 30 mins.