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Spleen

Keep your spleen healthy with these 10 tips

The spleen often works quietly in the background, but it is an essential part of our immune system. It helps fight infections, stores blood reserves and contributes to keeping the body healthy. What simple measures protect the spleen and promote overall well‑being?
  • Choose light dinners

Avoid heavy meals late in the evening. Instead, give your spleen warm, easily digestible dishes, such as soups. These are gentle on digestion and support nighttime regeneration.

  • Make sure you get restorative sleep

Regular sleep is essential for your spleen’s regeneration, especially between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Ensure a calm and comfortable sleeping environment.

  • Eat mindfully and without distractions

Focus on your plate and savour every bite. This helps your spleen manage digestion optimally and absorb nutrients efficiently.

  • Use spleen‑friendly herbs

Herbs such as anise, fennel and basil can support your spleen’s function. Used as spices or teas, they promote digestion and boost your immune system.

  • Include bitter foods in your diet

Foods like chicory or endive stimulate the spleen and support its activity. Bitters are particularly helpful for the production of digestive juices.

  • Support your spleen with essential vitamins and minerals

Adequate intake of iron and vitamins B6 and B12 supports blood formation and eases the spleen’s workload. Maintain a balanced diet or consider supplements if needed.

  • Exercise regularly to strengthen your spleen

Activities such as yoga, cycling or jogging improve blood flow to the spleen and aid in removing toxins. Find a form of exercise you enjoy.

  • Reduce stress with targeted relaxation

Treat stress as a challenge and learn to calm yourself with methods like meditation or Yoga Nidra. This relieves the spleen and strengthens your immune system.

  • Strengthen your spleen with the yoga pose "Frog"

Sit back on your heels, spread your knees wide and stretch your arms forward. Turn your head to the side and hold the position for a few minutes to relax the spleen and quiet the mind.

  • Boost your defences with natural remedies

Garlic, onions and radishes act like natural antibiotics and help the spleen fight pathogens.

editorial.facts

  • The spleen is protected in the upper left abdomen beneath the rib cage and is normally not palpable unless it is enlarged. Internally it is divided into a red part, which removes old blood cells from the circulation, and a white part, which supports the immune system with important defence cells. Each day, the entire blood supply passes through this small but vital organ about 500 times.
  • It is possible to live without a spleen, but the risk of infections then increases. People without a spleen often need to take extra care of their health and get vaccinated against certain diseases.
  • The familiar side stitch when running can also be caused by a temporary increase in blood flow to the spleen.