Why is it always recommended to consume protein while dieting? I'm curious about the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine on this.
Protein acts as the essential fuel for your body's engine. Consuming enough protein prevents muscle loss and maintains your basal metabolic rate, allowing body fat to burn efficiently. In Traditional Korean Medicine, this is viewed as nourishing Qi and Blood to enhance digestive power and prevent the accumulation of metabolic waste like Phlegm-rheum (Damyum). Ultimately, you must eat well to lose weight effectively.
I empathize with your struggle; I’ve also experienced the exhaustion of trying to lose weight by starving myself in the past. When the body lacks protein, it breaks down muscle tissue for energy, which is the fastest route to the 'yo-yo effect.'
From a Western medical perspective, protein has a high Thermic Effect of Food (TEF), meaning it consumes significantly more energy during digestion than carbohydrates or fats. It essentially helps you burn calories even while resting. It is also a key player in stimulating satiety hormones to curb 'fake hunger.'
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), protein intake is closely linked to preventing Spleen Deficiency (Bihu). If the Spleen—the center of digestion—is weak, food is not converted into energy but instead becomes sticky waste products like Phlegm-rheum (Damyum) or Blood Stasis (Eohyeol). This accumulation leads to stubborn 'age-related weight' and chronic swelling.
Eating quality protein nourishes Qi and Blood and strengthens the Spleen's transformative function. A healthy digestive system ensures that toxins are discharged and circulation remains smooth. However, it is important to choose protein sources that fit your specific constitution; for instance, some may thrive on chicken while others digest legumes better. I recommend tailoring your intake based on your individual digestive capacity and body condition for the best results.
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