In both traditional wisdom and modern life, foot soaking has always been seen as a simple but effective way to maintain one's health. This age-old Xi is not only a way to relax, but also a daily practice that promotes health. Have you ever wondered if we can really improve our health by simply soaking our feet in warm salt water, especially for our kidneys, the body's "energy center", what role can foot soaking play?
Many people have heard that "salt water foot soaking can cure all diseases", but is this really true? This is not only a question about traditional Xi, but also a health topic worthy of our in-depth exploration. In this article, we will demystify the practice of salt water foot soaking and explore its true impact on health, especially when it comes to tonifying the kidneys.
Demystifying Salt Water Foot Soaking: Myth or Science for Kidney Supplementation?
Foot soaking, a traditional health regimen that is deeply loved by the general public, has received special attention in recent years. In particular, the discussion on the effect of salt water foot soak and kidney tonic has aroused the interest of many health enthusiasts. So, can soaking your feet in salt water really nourish your kidneys? What is the science behind this?
Foot Soak in Salt Water and Tonify the Kidney: An Analysis of Scientific Principles
First, we need to understand the basic functions of the kidneys. The kidneys are the body's vital detoxification organs, responsible for filtering waste and excess water from the blood. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, the kidney is regarded as the "innate foundation", and whether the kidney qi is sufficient or not is directly related to the overall health of the human body.
The reason why salt water foot soak is believed to help nourish the kidney is mainly based on two aspects: one is the warming effect, and the other is the osmotic effect of salt. When soaking your feet, the warmth of hot water can promote blood circulation in your feet, which in turn will drive blood circulation throughout your body, helping to relieve the burden on your kidneys. At the same time, salt is permeable, which can help the skin eliminate toxins, further promote the body's metabolism, and indirectly assist kidney function.
The best time to soak your feet: the key to nourishing your kidneys at night
According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, 9 pm to 11 pm is the most vigorous time of the kidney meridian, and soaking the feet in salt water at this time can promote the maintenance of the kidneys to the greatest extent. During this time, the body begins to enter the nighttime rest mode, and foot soaking not only helps to improve kidney function, but also promotes deep sleep, so as to achieve better health effects.
Note: Not for everyone
While salt water foot soak has its health benefits, it's not for everyone. For example, patients with skin wounds, abnormal glucose metabolism, and patients with increased systemic arterial blood pressure should avoid using saline foot soaking to avoid adverse reactions. At the same time, the temperature and duration of the foot soak should also be moderate, as overheating or soaking for too long may cause a burden on the body.
When the silent bladder sounds an alarm: the potential risk of not urinating for a long time
When exploring the health effects of not urinating for long periods of time, we need to recognize that the bladder is a sensitive organ that is more than just a simple storage container. Not urinating for long periods of time, even without immediate discomfort, can have long-term effects on your urinary system and overall health.
1. Increased risk of urinary tract infections
Not urinating for a long time can lead to urine retention in the bladder, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. This condition may increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Not only is the infection painful and uncomfortable, but it can also travel up to the kidneys and cause more serious health problems.
2. Potential impairment of bladder function
The bladder has some elasticity, but long-term over-expansion of the bladder may cause the bladder wall to become less elastic. This condition reduces the bladder's ability to store effectively and can lead to long-term urination problems such as urinary frequency, urgency, or incontinence.
3. Effects on kidney health
Excessive distension of the bladder can put pressure on the upstream urinary tract system, including the urethral tubes and kidneys. Long-term stress can lead to the backflow of urine to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease such as pyelonephritis.
4. Affect quality of life
Not urinating for long periods of time can lead to chronic bloating, discomfort, and even pain, affecting the comfort of daily life. This discomfort can interfere with sleep, work, and daily activities, reducing quality of life.
Do you know the five taboos of foot soaking?
Foot soaking is an ancient and universal regimen that is considered by many to be a simple and effective health-promoting activity. However, foot soaking is not suitable for everyone, and it is not safe to soak your feet in all cases. Here are the top five do-dons you must be aware of when soaking your feet to ensure that this Xi is good for your health and not a risk.
1. Skin lesions or infections
If you have open wounds, burns, eczema or other skin infections on your feet, foot soaking may increase your risk of infection. In this case, moisture and heat may provide an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, exacerbating the infection.
2. Precautions during pregnancy
Pregnant women need to avoid excessive heat in water and too long a soaking time. Hot water baths may cause hyperthermia, which can adversely affect the fetus. The safest course of action is to consult a doctor and soak your feet under their guidance.
3. Diabetes mellitus and sensory nerve damage
People with dybologic disorders (diabetes) often have sensory nerve damage, which reduces sensitivity to temperature and can lead to burns without realizing it. Therefore, it is advisable to soak your feet under the guidance of a medical professional.
4. Severe heart disease and high blood pressure
For people with high blood pressure in the systemic arteries (hypertension) or heart disease, soaking your feet in hot water may cause sudden changes in blood pressure and increase the burden on the heart. In these cases, a doctor should be consulted before soaking your feet.
5. Children and the elderly
Children and older adults have more sensitive skin and may react more violently to temperature changes. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the water temperature when soaking the feet, avoid overheating, and the time should not be too long.
The right way to soak your feet
In addition to the above taboos, the correct way to soak your feet is also crucial. The ideal temperature of the foot soaking water should be between 40-45°C, and the time should be controlled at 15-30 minutes. Using a moderate amount of salt can increase the density of water and help relieve muscle fatigue, but the amount of salt should not be too much. After soaking your feet, dry your feet with a clean towel and apply some moisturizing lotion to prevent your skin from drying out.