Emerge Nourished: Spring Foods to Cleanse, Ground & Renew
A fresh season calls for fresh nourishment. In spring, we focus on light, vibrant foods that support the Liver and Gallbladder in TCM — encouraging detoxification, smooth energy flow, and whole-body renewal.
As the Wood element rises, your body naturally craves greens, sour notes, and cleansing foods — but staying grounded with high-quality protein is just as important. Keep reading to learn ways to nourish yourself with the season in mind! We’ve included some spring-friendly meal inspo at the end for you!
Below is a balanced list of spring-friendly foods, including animal proteins, to keep your Qi flowing and body thriving.
Vegetables
Vegetables that are liver-loving and cleansing
Dandelion greens – Detoxifying and bitter, great for Liver Qi flow
Asparagus – Gently diuretic, helps clear dampness and supports detox
Artichokes – Great for bile flow and Liver function
Leafy greens (kale, spinach, Swiss chard, arugula) – Move Liver Qi and nourish Blood
Broccoli and Brussels sprouts – Support phase 2 Liver detoxification
Radishes – Move stagnant Qi and aid digestion
Snap peas and green beans – Fresh, light, and easy on the system
Fruits
Fruits that are sour and astringent to move Liver Qi
Lemons and limes – Support digestion and Liver function
Grapefruit – Gently detoxifying and aids fat metabolism
Apples – Cooling and cleansing, support digestion
Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) – Antioxidant-rich and clear heat
Animal Proteins
Choose clean animal proteins and remember, animal proteins are very nourishing to your body
Organic chicken – Light and warming, easy on digestion
Turkey – Lean and grounding without being too heavy
Eggs (pasture-raised) – Build Blood and support Yin
Wild-caught fish (salmon, cod, halibut) – Anti-inflammatory and rich in Omega-3s
Shellfish (shrimp, scallops) – Good for Yang support without too much heat
Bone broth – Nourishes Blood and supports digestion, balances the cooling nature of spring greens
Plant-Based Proteins, Herbs, & Seasonings
Plant Based Proteins
Lentils – Light and easy to digest, help clear dampness
Chickpeas – Great for Spleen Qi and balancing heavier greens
Pumpkin seeds – Rich in zinc and help move stagnant Liver Qi
Sunflower seeds – Nourish the Liver and support mood balance
Herbs and Seasonings:
Cilantro – Clears heat and supports gentle detox
Mint – Moves Liver Qi and cools heat
Parsley – Supports digestion and reduces water retention
Ginger – Warms digestion and prevents cold stagnation from raw foods
Grains
Light and easy to digest
Quinoa – High in protein, easy on the Spleen
Millet – Dries dampness and supports digestion
Brown rice – Gentle and grounding without being too heavy
Healthy Fats
Avocado – Nourishes Yin and supports smooth Qi flow
Olive oil – Anti-inflammatory and supports Liver health
Flaxseed oil – Supports hormone balance and detox pathways
Spring-Friendly Meals Inspiration
Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed asparagus
Stir-fried chicken with dandelion greens, garlic, and ginger
Egg and veggie scramble with cilantro and avocado
Turkey lettuce wraps with mint, lime, and shredded carrots
Spring green salad with arugula, radishes, pumpkin seeds, and lemon vinaigrette
We’d love to hear how you are adding these Spring options into your meals, routine, and life in general. Need more inspiration or guidance? Book a session with Dr. King to tailor a plan for you!
