Q. I see tuna ssamjang (seasoned soybean paste) recommended often as a diet meal. Why exactly is this helpful for weight loss?

Many people make the mistake of sticking strictly to chicken breast and sweet potatoes, which can lead to extreme fatigue and lethargy. When we restrict our diets too severely, the body enters a 'survival mode,' attempting to conserve energy and slowing down the metabolism. From a medical perspective, the core of maintaining a healthy basal metabolic rate is adequate protein intake, which the high-quality protein in tuna provides. Furthermore, the fermented components of ssamjang facilitate faster digestion and absorption and activate beneficial gut bacteria, significantly boosting metabolic efficiency. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this process is viewed as improving a state of 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛, Bi-heo). When the function of the Spleen is weak, energy levels drop and digestive power decreases, often leading to 'false hunger.' Consuming a harmonious balance of moderate salinity and fermented foods stimulates the Spleen and Stomach (脾胃, Bi-wi) functions, boosting vital energy and preventing the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮), which are unnecessary metabolic waste products or phlegm-fluid. However, be cautious of the excessive sugars found in commercially produced ssamjang. This is why I recommend a homemade version that balances natural ingredients. The healthiest way to manage weight without the 'yo-yo effect' is to regulate your weight while revitalizing the body's vital energy. Please let me know if you need a personalized dietary guide tailored to your specific constitution.