Q. When I'm stressed, I keep binge eating. What should I do?

I used to stand in front of the fridge when stressed, but I later learned I have a Spleen Deficiency (biheo) constitution. In Korean medicine, stress obstructs the Liver (gan) qi, which in turn suppresses Spleen (bijang) function, leading to binge eating urges. The cause varies by constitution: for example, Tae-eum types tend to accumulate Phlegm-Dampness (seutam) and binge, while So-eum types experience cycles of hunger and bingeing due to Spleen Deficiency. A simple constitution diagnosis at a Korean medicine clinic can help find the right approach. When the urge hits, people often seek sweet foods, but that further exhausts the Spleen. I recommend starting with warm tea or easily digestible foods like porridge. Combining Spleen-nourishing herbal formulas such as Bojungikgi-tang or Soyosan with stress-relieving herbs can greatly help. Lifestyle adjustments should also match your constitution: cold types benefit from walking or light stretching to soothe the Liver, while heat-prone types do better with deep breathing or meditation. Acupuncture and herbal treatment can regulate Liver and Spleen function, making you less reactive to stress. A consultation will help you find a personalized solution.