Reviewed by최연승대표원장
There are always snacks lying around in my office. Is it just a lack of willpower? Is there a way to resist these temptations?
It is likely not a matter of willpower, but rather a signal from your body. When your energy levels drop, the brain instinctively seeks sugar as the fastest energy source. Instead of simply trying to endure it, addressing the underlying internal imbalances in your body will naturally reduce these cravings.
Temptations from office snacks are often more related to your 'metabolic state' than your willpower. From a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, craving sweets at specific times is an SOS signal from your body.
1. Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛): When the function of the Spleen is weakened, the absorption and transportation of nutrients are impaired. The body perceives an energy deficit and triggers a strong craving for sugar to compensate.
2. Phlegm-Fluid Accumulation (Dam-eum, 痰飮): When metabolic waste, known as 'phlegm-fluid,' accumulates, the overall metabolism slows down. This often leads to 'false hunger,' making you feel a constant need to snack even when not truly hungry.
3. Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血): When blood circulation is stagnant, the supply of oxygen to the brain decreases, leading to a drop in concentration. The brain then seeks sugar for a rapid spike in alertness.
While it is difficult to change your office environment, you can address the root cause. By using herbal medicine to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach functions and clearing out metabolic waste, your cravings will gradually subside without the need for forced suppression. Please do not blame yourself for a lack of willpower; restoring your body's balance is the priority. Let's work together to find the right prescription for your specific condition.