Q. What exactly are the diet foods sold at Costco, and why are they said to help with weight loss?

Many people try these trendy diet foods, but the taste can often feel artificial or unusual. The core principle of these products is 'saccharide restriction.' When we overconsume refined carbohydrates, blood sugar spikes rapidly, triggering a surge of insulin that stores excess energy as fat. Low-sugar foods mitigate this process, encouraging the body to use stored fat as its primary energy source. From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine, this is closely related to the management of Dam-eum (痰飮). Dam-eum refers to sticky, stagnant metabolic waste that forms when fluid metabolism is impaired. Excessive sugar intake promotes the accumulation of this waste, making the body feel heavy and obstructing the flow of Qi and blood. Therefore, a low-saccharide diet effectively prevents the root cause of Dam-eum production, thereby supporting systemic circulation. However, a word of caution: relying solely on the ingredient list and overeating can lead to a high total caloric intake, neutralizing the diet's benefits. Furthermore, digestive capacity varies by individual. Those with Spleen Deficiency (脾虛, Bi-heo)—characterized by a weak digestive system—may find that artificial sweeteners or high-protein supplements put undue strain on the intestines, leading to bloating and discomfort. Ultimately, the key is to adjust your diet based on your specific metabolic state. While food ingredients are important, it is crucial to first assess your body's current circulatory status and overall constitutional balance to achieve the best results.