Spleen Dampness with Phlegm (脾虚痰湿) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern where the Spleen organ system fails to properly transform and transport fluids and nutrients, leading to dampness and phlegm accumulation throughout the body. This manifests as stubborn weight gain (especially abdominal), water retention and edema, cellulite, low energy, brain fog, and heavy limbs. The metabolism becomes sluggish, calories are stored as dampness rather than burned as energy, and no amount of calorie restriction seems to work. In this case, a 36-year-old office manager gained weight progressively over 5 years despite dieting attempts. The thick tongue coating, pale color, and swollen body detected by AI indicated severe dampness accumulation. Treatment focused on strengthening the Spleen's transformative function with herbs that drain dampness and resolve phlegm, combined with avoiding dampness-producing foods (dairy, wheat, sugar, cold/raw foods). Results: 12kg weight loss over 12 weeks (102kg→90kg), 80% energy improvement, complete resolution of edema, and 92% dampness pattern resolution. The key is addressing the root metabolic dysfunction (weak Spleen), not just calorie restriction.
Spleen Dampness creates a metabolic pattern where the body stores everything as dampness/fluid rather than burning it for energy. Calorie restriction alone doesn't address the root dysfunction - the Spleen's inability to transform nutrients properly. This is why TCM herbal formulas that strengthen Spleen function and drain dampness often succeed where pure dieting fails. You must fix the mechanism before weight loss can occur.
They often correlate but aren't identical. Hypothyroidism is a specific glandular dysfunction (low thyroid hormone), while Spleen Dampness describes a broader metabolic and fluid-transport dysfunction. Many hypothyroid patients show Spleen Dampness tongue signs, but not all Spleen Dampness cases have low thyroid levels. Both involve sluggish metabolism, but Spleen Dampness specifically addresses digestive weakness and fluid accumulation mechanisms.
Completely eliminate dampness-producing foods: all dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt), wheat and gluten, refined sugar, fried/greasy foods, cold/raw foods (salads, iced drinks), tropical fruits (banana, mango, pineapple), and alcohol. These foods overwhelm the already-weak Spleen. Instead eat warm cooked foods, soups, lean proteins, cooked vegetables, and warming spices like ginger and cinnamon.
Most patients lose 1-2kg per week once the Spleen function improves, typically starting after 2-3 weeks of treatment as dampness begins draining. In this case: 3kg lost by week 4, 7kg by week 8, and 12kg total by week 12. This is sustainable weight loss from metabolic correction, not starvation, which is why it maintains long-term without rebound.
Yes, but choose appropriate exercise. Gentle to moderate activity (walking, swimming, yoga, light weights) helps circulate Qi and drain dampness without depleting the already-weak Spleen. Avoid exhaustive cardio or intense boot camps that further drain energy. Consistency with moderate movement beats sporadic intense workouts. Start with 20-30 minutes daily and build gradually.
Weight: Lost 12kg (102kg → 90kg)
Energy: 80% improvement
Edema: Resolved completely
This AI-powered tongue analysis tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided should not replace professional medical consultation.
Important: Always consult with a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, qualified healthcare provider, or physician before making any health decisions or starting any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information obtained from this tool.
Note: While our AI models are trained on extensive datasets, no automated system is 100% accurate. Results may vary and should be verified by qualified health professionals. If you experience any serious symptoms or health concerns, seek immediate medical attention.