When I'm stressed, I keep binge eating. Is there a solution for this in Traditional Korean Medicine?

Stress-induced binge eating is not simply a matter of willpower. In TKM, the Liver (gan) is responsible for the smooth flow of qi (energy). When stress accumulates, it causes Liver Depression (ganyu), impairing emotional regulation and appetite control, leading to irresistible binge urges. Constitution plays a key role—for example, a Soyangin (少阳人) type is prone to Liver Depression and often experiences heartburn after binge eating, while a Taeeumin (太阴人) type has underlying Spleen Deficiency (pixu) and feels bloated and lethargic after bingeing. Treatment follows a stepwise approach: (1) Identifying stressors and relieving Liver Depression through acupuncture or herbal medicine, along with breathing exercises and light activity; (2) Restoring the Spleen after bingeing using herbs like shanyao (Chinese yam) and baizhu (atractylodes) to strengthen digestion; (3) Providing constitution-specific dietary guidance—e.g., warm peppermint tea for Soyangin to soothe the Liver, and congee or soup-based meals for Taeeumin to reduce digestive burden; (4) Correcting behavioral patterns by tracking binge triggers and replacing them with alternatives like wrist acupressure or drinking tea; (5) Regular follow-up every 2-4 weeks to adjust treatment. Importantly, this is not a quick-fix weight-loss approach—by addressing the root causes of Liver Depression and Spleen Deficiency, appetite regulation naturally improves without rebound or side effects. For personalized care, a constitution assessment at the clinic is recommended.