You recommend tofu gratin as a diet meal; what exactly is it, and why is it helpful for weight loss?
Tofu gratin is a low-carb, high-protein meal where mashed tofu replaces the flour base, topped with cheese and vegetables and then baked. By limiting refined carbohydrates, it prevents blood sugar spikes and suppresses the over-secretion of insulin, which naturally reduces fat accumulation. Rather than simply cutting calories, this diet shifts the way your body utilizes energy.
Many people believe dieting requires fasting or strictly eating chicken breast, which often leads to fatigue and dizziness. That is why I recommend alternative nutrient-dense meals like this. Medically, refined carbohydrates such as wheat flour rapidly increase blood glucose, stimulating insulin secretion and promoting body fat storage. In contrast, tofu is rich in protein, providing long-lasting satiety.
From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this process helps improve a state of 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or Spleen Deficiency. When the Spleen function is weak, digestive absorption decreases and metabolic waste accumulates. High-quality proteins like tofu support the energy (Qi) of the Spleen and help eliminate 'Dameum' (痰飮)—abnormal fluid waste accumulated in the body.
By consuming quality protein, you create a virtuous cycle that restores digestive function and increases metabolic efficiency. However, since some individuals may have constitutions that do not react well to legumes, I recommend visiting the clinic for a precise consultation to tailor a diet specifically to your body type.
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