The problems arising from a cold spleen and stomach described in Donguibogam are concepts that modern medicine can thoroughly explain as well. This is especially true for those with a sensitive gut. Our intestines function as a second brain closely linked to the brain through a delicate nervous system known as the gut-brain axis. The gut itself possesses an enteric nervous system that regulates everything from digestion and absorption to immune responses.
Why is it easy to trigger diarrhea when consuming cold food or excessive raw vegetables?
First, there is a decline in digestive enzyme activity. Digestive enzymes work most actively in a warm environment similar to body temperature. When cold food enters, the temperature of the stomach and intestines drops temporarily, decreasing digestive enzyme function. Ultimately, food passes into the intestines without being properly broken down, and the gut perceives it as foreign matter and tries to expel it rapidly.
Second, there are changes in intestinal motility. Cold stimulation affects smooth muscle contraction in the gut. While it slows intestinal motility in some individuals, it can trigger excessive peristalsis in those with a sensitive gut, promoting diarrhea. The intestines react in unexpected ways, much like contracting upon contact with cold water.
Third, there is an association with irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome, common among modern individuals, is a functional disorder with recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation without specific inflammation or structural abnormalities. Patients with irritable bowel syndrome have abnormally heightened visceral sensation, perceiving even normal amounts of intestinal gas or digestive movement as extreme discomfort. In particular, excessive fiber—specifically vegetables high in carbohydrates known as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), such as onions, garlic, broccoli, and cauliflower—is rapidly fermented by gut microbiota, generating excessive gas. This gas distends the intestinal barrier and stimulates sensitive enteric nerves, frequently becoming the main cause of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Although these vegetables are nutritious, they can act unfavorably on a sensitive gut.
Fourth, there is gut dysbiosis. Suddenly consuming large amounts of fiber or frequently eating raw, cold vegetables can bring abrupt changes to the gut microbiota. As a result, the balance between beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria is disrupted, weakening the intestinal barrier, triggering inflammatory responses, and further increasing gut sensitivity. Modern science once again demonstrates that the concept of the spleen and stomach in Donguibogam was an important framework explaining the holistic impact of food on the body, extending far beyond the mere digestive system.
