Reviewed by최연승대표원장
I tend to overeat whenever I'm stressed. How does a Korean medicine clinic handle this?
Rather than forcing a fast, we focus on relieving mental tension and restoring digestive balance. We first calm 'false hunger' and then boost your metabolism to help you naturally regulate your appetite. Having struggled with sugar cravings during stress myself, I understand how you feel; think of this as a process of slowly reclaiming your body's natural rhythm.
Stress-induced binge eating is not simply a matter of willpower, but a physiological response to internal imbalances. We typically manage this through a three-stage approach:
1. The 'Calming Stage' (Weeks 1-2): We focus on resolving 'Qi stagnation' (氣滯)—the buildup of stagnant energy caused by stress—and lowering psychological anxiety. During this phase, you will notice explosive cravings beginning to subside.
2. The 'Purification Stage' (Weeks 3-4): We remove accumulated metabolic waste, known as 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid) and 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis). As your metabolism improves and your body feels lighter, you will gradually break the habit of relying on food as your only stress relief.
3. The 'Stabilization Stage': We address 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛), a state where weakened Spleen function leads to uneven nutrient absorption and elimination. This process builds the physical resilience necessary for you to regulate your food intake independently.
I once struggled with using food to cope with stress, which led to dizziness and digestive issues, so I truly empathize with your situation. I won't tell you to simply endure it; instead, let's work together to relearn how to listen to your body's signals.