Foods to Nourish the Kidneys–Fight Osteoporosis, Lower Back Pain, and Hair Loss

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the kidneys are considered one of the most vital organs. They are often referred to as the “foundation of all life” or the root of the body’s essential energy (Qi).

Health problems, including osteoporosis, low back pain, hair loss, gray hair, gum recession, loose teeth, and tinnitus, may all result from kidney deficiency. By nourishing the kidneys, these symptoms can be improved and effectively treated.

The classic Chinese medical literature “Huangdi Neijing” recorded that “the kidney governs the bones and generates the marrow ...” There is an intimate relationship between kidney health and the conditions of other parts of the body such as the bones, teeth, one’s height, and hair.

For example, osteoporosis symptoms like low back pain and hair loss are likely manifestations of kidney deficiency. TCM often employs kidney-tonifying means for conditioning and treatment to treat these symptoms.

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Understanding the Kidney According to TCM

In TCM, “kidney” is referred to as the broader “kidney jing.” “Jing,” also known as essence or “jing qi,” is mostly stored in the kidneys and is the most basic substance that constitutes the human body and maintains physiological activities. It includes the vital essence inherited from parents—the innate essence—and the acquired essence of water and grain obtained through food, drink, and respiration.

In TCM’s perspective, kidney deficiency refers to the deficiency of kidney essence—in other words, “kidney is the foundation of life.” The kidney serves such functions as nourishing the bones and teeth, regulating hormones and the immune system, controlling internal fluid flow, and managing mental health.

In Western medicine, the kidney refers to an excretion organ that forms part of the wider urinary system. Nephrology focuses on diagnosing and treating kidney diseases, and urology focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions of the urinary system and male reproductive organs.

According to TCM, when the kidney essence and blood are sufficient, the hair will be shiny, the bones will be strong, and the teeth will be robust. When they are insufficient, it will lead to poor dental quality, osteoporosis, low back pain, hunched back, and even affect the growth of teenagers.

According to TCM, too much sugar intake causes damage to the kidneys and can lead to bone pain and hair loss. Therefore, people should not eat too many sweets.

Western medicine research also reveals that kidney disease may lead to a decrease in bone density. Kidney disease patients are four times more likely to encounter bone fractures than ordinary people.

Tooth decay in children is often related to congenital kidney deficiency.

In addition, tinnitus may also be related to kidney deficiency. TCM believes that high-pitched tinnitus is usually associated with kidney deficiency, while low-pitched tinnitus may be related to the liver. Understanding the type of tinnitus can help provide targeted treatment.

In addition to physiological factors, mental/emotional factors also play a significant role in causing kidney deficiency. According to TCM theory, sadness and depression damage the lungs; fear and surprise damage the kidneys; anger damages the liver; excessive joy damages the heart. Therefore, maintaining emotional stability and avoiding excessive panic is important for maintaining kidney health.

How does TCM nourish the kidneys? In addition to medicines, including “Jinkui Shenqi Pills,” “Liuwei Dihuang Pills,” and “Huan Shao Dan,” dietary supplements are also important.

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Traditional Wisdom for Kidney Replenishment: Black Foods and Silkie Chicken Soup

In TCM, certain foods that are black in color are considered to have special nourishing effects on the kidneys. These foods include Polygonum multiflorum, black beans, black sesame seeds, black rice (also known as purple rice), and black fungus. These foods are rich in nutrients and can help strengthen kidney function and, in turn, enhance overall health.

In addition to black-colored foods, Silkie chicken soup is a long-cherished kidney-tonifying goody.

Polygonum multiflorum is a special medicinal plant used for centuries as a traditional liver and kidney tonic in TCM. It has been known to be effective in darkening hair and prolonging life.

Note: The above herbs can be purchased at health food and Asian grocery stores. Remember to consult a medical professional physician for specific treatment options.