Q My child barely wants to eat after school starts. What foods help with back-to-school syndrome?
A When the digestive system is under stress, warm and soft foods that place little digestive burden are good. Spicy and cold foods, carbonated drinks, and snacks can further disturb digestive function, so it is best to reduce them.
Detailed Answer
During back-to-school syndrome, the digestive system is weakened by stress and liver-energy stagnation. At this time, cold and stimulating foods such as cold dishes, ice cream, and cold noodles further damage the yang energy of the digestive system, while spicy or greasy foods increase the digestive burden and worsen abdominal pain and loss of appetite. Conversely, warm porridge, soybean-paste soup, and softly cooked vegetables ease the digestive system and help replenish energy.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we recommend preparing breakfast soft and warm at the start of the term. Giving cold milk or fruit juice on an empty stomach before school can stimulate the digestive system and trigger abdominal pain. Creating a positive feeling about breakfast with a warm dish the child especially likes also offers practical help in easing school refusal.
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