A Qi-deficient body type simply means your “Qi” (your body’s vital energy) is running low.
Qi is the foundation of our vitality and plays an important role in keeping us healthy and active.

When Qi is lacking, you may feel tired, sluggish, or more sensitive to cold. It can also weaken your immune system, making you more prone to catching colds. Digestive health may be affected too, leading to a poor appetite, bloating, or loose stools.

You can learn more about Qi and how it supports your health here.

Common signs associated with Qi Deficiency in TCM

• Feeling unmotivated
• Getting tired easily
• Running out of breath quickly
• Sweating more than others
• Poor appetite
• Sensitive to cold / Cold hands and feet
• Feeling dizzy
• Catch colds often and slow recovery
• Forgetfulness
• Bloating or a heavy feeling in the stomach
• Edema
• Startled easily
• Digestive discomfort (loose stools or frequent diarrhea)
• Weak voice

Additional signs sometimes linked to menstruation and fertility (if applicable):

• Irregular periods
• Menstrual cramps

Note: These signs are based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and may also be present in other health conditions. Please look after yourself and check with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Causes of Qi Deficiency

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi Deficiency often develops because:

• Overwork or prolonged stress gradually drains the body’s vital energy, leading to fatigue and low resilience.
• Weak or impaired digestion (Spleen and Stomach function in TCM) prevents the body from transforming food into enough Qi, even with a healthy diet, so nutrients aren’t fully absorbed.

Daily Tips to Support Your Qi

• Avoid pushing yourself too hard. Gentle exercise like walking—just enough to leave you pleasantly tired—is a great choice.
• Try not to overeat or eat too quickly, and go easy on sweets and deep-fried foods.
• Keep your tummy warm. If you're in air-conditioned spaces all day, try using a lap blanket to protect your core. Also, avoid too many cold foods or iced drinks.
• Choose meals that are easy to digest.
• And don’t forget to get plenty of good-quality sleep.

Examples of Qi-Boosting Foods

Grain - Rice, Oatmeal, 
Meat and fish - Chicken, Beef, Pork, Eel, Tuna, Cod, 
Vegetables and other - Chinese yams, Potatoes, Sweet potatoes, Pumpkins, Avocados, Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Broccolies, Beans, Shiitake mushrooms, Chickpeas, Walnuts, Chestnuts, Spring onions, Cilantro, Myoga, Ginger, Apples, Peaches, Eggs, Honey, Jujube