Supporting Digestion in Late Summer
Nourishing the Earth Element for Energy, Clarity, and Pelvic Health
This is a part 2 of 4 in the Late Summer Health Series:
(We recommend starting with the Five Elements Series for deeper context if you haven't yet.)
Supporting Digestion in Late Summer (You are here)
Late Summer: Overthinking and Worry (coming soon)
Transitioning Gracefully into Autumn (coming soon)
Late Summer, ruled by the Earth element, invites us to restore the digestive system after a vibrant, often indulgent summer. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, digestion supports not only energy but also blood production, mental clarity, and pelvic vitality. This season offers a chance to re-ground, nourish deeply, and prepare the body for the shift into autumn.
Late Summer and Digestive Exhaustion
Was your summer full of long weekends, cottage getaways, cold drinks, rich foods, and late nights? You’re not alone.
Now that the pace is shifting—school routines, cooler evenings, a hint of structure creeping back in—your digestion may be asking for a reset.
Feeling any of this?
Bloating
Indigestion
Looser stools
Fatigue or heaviness
These are classic signs that the Spleen system may be overwhelmed. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Late Summer is governed by the Earth element—and the Spleen and Stomach are its key organs.
The Spleen’s Role in Digestion, Blood, and Pelvic Health
In TCM, the Spleen does more than digest food. It transforms what we eat into Qi and Blood—fueling not just energy, but also tissue repair, menstrual cycles, and pelvic stability.
When the Earth element is depleted, we may see signs like:
Brain fog and fatigue
Pelvic heaviness or bloating
Spotting or irregular cycles
Feeling emotionally “unanchored” or prone to worry
Prolapse, bruising, or a sensation of downward pressure
In short: strong digestion equals better resilience, inside and out.
What’s the Link Between Digestion and Pelvic Health?
Think of the Spleen as the body’s great integrator. It lifts, holds, and transforms—keeping everything in place.
Some of the lesser-known connections:
Blood and fluid production: nourishes reproductive organs
“Lifting” function: supports pelvic tone, helps prevent prolapse or postural dizziness
Emotional digestion: chronic worry can create stagnation in the gut and pelvic bowl
Warm, cooked food: supports peristalsis, prevents bloating, grounds the nervous system
What to Eat in Late Summer
The Spleen loves warmth, simplicity, and gentle sweetness.
Consider enjoying:
Yellow/orange foods: squash, carrots, millet, corn
Naturally sweet foods: yams, rice, dates, cooked apples
Digestive herbs: fresh ginger, cinnamon, cardamom
Soups, stews, and congee
Avoid: raw salads, cold smoothies, overly greasy or damp-producing foods (think deep-fried or creamy dairy)
Gentle Cooking Tips for the Season
Think slow and steady:
Steam, bake, or simmer
Add warming spices
Eat sitting down, without multitasking
You’re not just feeding your belly—you’re restoring your centre.
Other posts on this series:
Supporting Digestion in Late Summer (you’re here)
Late Summer: Overthinking and Worry (coming soon)
Transitioning Gracefully into Autumn (coming soon)