Organ Meats: How “Like Nourishes Like” in TCM
For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has emphasized the importance of eating specific foods to nourish and strengthen the body. One of the most nutrient-dense and medicinally potent food groups often overlooked in modern diets is organ meats. Once a staple in traditional diets worldwide, these powerhouse foods are now making a comeback, and for good reason. Let’s explore why!
The Concept of "Like Nourishes Like" in TCM
In TCM, there is a well-known principle: "like nourishes like." This means that eating a particular organ can directly benefit the corresponding organ in your own body. For example:
Liver nourishes the Liver and supports detoxification, blood health, and emotional balance.
Kidneys strengthen the Kidney system, essential for longevity, fertility, and vitality.
Heart supports Heart function, circulation, and emotional well-being.
Lungs enhance Lung health, immunity, and overall Qi (vital energy) circulation.
Spleen & Stomach (tripe) aid digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic balance.
By consuming these foods, you directly provide the body with the exact nutrients needed to fortify these organ systems.
The Qi, Blood, and Essence Boosting Power of Organ Meats
In TCM, the foundation of health lies in the balance of Qi (vital energy), Blood, and Essence (Jing). Organ meats are exceptionally rich in the very components that help replenish these fundamental substances:
Liver is packed with iron, B vitamins, and vitamin A, making it one of the most effective foods for nourishing Blood and ensuring smooth Qi flow. TCM often recommends liver for conditions such as anemia, dizziness, or menstrual irregularities.
Kidney is rich in zinc, selenium, and essential amino acids, supporting Kidney Jing, which governs reproductive health, bone strength, and longevity. It’s often recommended for those experiencing fatigue, hair loss, or lower back pain—signs of Kidney deficiency.
Heart is high in CoQ10, an essential compound for cardiovascular function. In TCM, Heart governs both physical circulation and emotional stability, making heart meat a great choice for those dealing with stress or anxiety.
Lungs contain bioavailable collagen and elastin, which can strengthen the Lung system, particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic respiratory issues or weak immunity.
Organ Meats as a Tonic for Deficiency Patterns
Many modern health issues stem from deficiency patterns in TCM, such as Blood deficiency, Qi deficiency, and Yang deficiency. Organ meats serve as a powerful tonic for these conditions:
Blood Deficiency (pale complexion, dizziness, fatigue, menstrual issues) – Best organ meats: liver, heart, spleen
Qi Deficiency (low energy, weak digestion, frequent colds) – Best organ meats: spleen, stomach, lung
Yang Deficiency (cold intolerance, low libido, chronic fatigue) – Best organ meats: kidney, bone marrow
How to Incorporate Organ Meats Into Your Diet
If you’re new to organ meats, start small. Try mixing ground liver with beef, making a hearty bone broth, or using kidney in a slow-cooked stew. Many cultures have long-standing recipes that make these foods delicious and easy to consume.
For those who aren’t keen on the intense flavour profile of organ meats, you can incorporate a good quality capsuled organ supplement.
Lastly, always organs meats sourced from healthy grass fed animals. The health of the animal will determine the health of the meat. A healther meat equals a healthier you!
My personal brand of choice is Higher Healths. They’re an Alberta company that embraces our dietary roots and produces a high quality product. I get mine at Light Cellar in Bowness, Calgary.
Conclusion: A Return to Ancestral Wisdom
In the fast-paced modern world, many nutrient-dense, traditional foods have fallen out of favor. But from a TCM perspective, organ meats remain some of the most powerful, Qi-restoring, and life-enhancing foods available. If you’re looking to build resilience, replenish vital energy, and support your body's core functions, adding organ meats to your diet is a wise and ancient practice worth reviving.
Are you curious about how TCM dietary therapy can support your health? Book an appointment and let’s personalize your nutrition plan!