Q. I often eat sweet potatoes as my main meal while dieting. Why exactly are they considered good for weight loss? Sometimes I feel like I'm actually gaining weight, so I'm a bit confused.

Many people fall into the trap of over-consuming sweet potatoes, leading to unwanted weight gain despite their 'healthy' reputation. While they are indeed beneficial complex carbohydrates, Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) provides a more nuanced perspective. This is often related to Bi-Heo (Spleen Deficiency), a state where the digestive system's transportive function is weakened. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes can reinforce Spleen (Pi) function and boost energy; however, in excess, it stagnates the flow of Qi. This undigested energy transforms into Dam-eum (Phlegm-fluid or metabolic waste), which hinders circulation and can eventually lead to Eo-hyeol (Blood Stasis). For office workers in their 30s to 50s who lead sedentary lifestyles and suffer from stress-induced Qi stagnation, excessive starch intake further disrupts metabolism, causing bloating and weight gain. Rather than following a generic diet, it is crucial to assess whether your digestive system can efficiently burn these carbohydrates or if they will turn into Dam-eum. At Baengnokdam, we analyze each patient's constitution and metabolic efficiency to ensure your nutritional intake facilitates energy production rather than waste accumulation.