Q. When I get stressed, I keep binge eating. How can Traditional Korean Medicine help improve this?

I sympathize because I also used to pace in front of the refrigerator at night when stressed. In Traditional Korean Medicine, stress-induced binge eating is broadly viewed in two patterns. One is 'liver qi stagnation (ganqi yujie)'. When the liver fails to smoothly regulate qi, anger builds up, leading to a compulsive craving for sweets or carbohydrates. In such cases, herbs that promote liver qi circulation (e.g., bupleurum, atractylodes), along with acupuncture to release emotional tension and lifestyle advice, are helpful. The other pattern is 'spleen deficiency (pixu)'. When spleen function is weak, stress actually impairs digestion, and the body unconsciously eats to replenish energy—especially common when anxiety is high and hands keep reaching for snacks. For this, the main treatment involves strengthening the spleen (jianpi) with herbs like ginseng and astragalus, along with dietary therapy to regulate digestive rhythm. If blood stasis (exue) or phlegm retention (tanyin) are also present, symptoms like constipation or bloating may appear, requiring additional adjustments. The key is not to simply suppress the urge but to first understand the pattern behind the binge eating. In the clinic, a detailed discussion can help find the right approach for you.