Q. Why do I keep craving 'diet snacks' that are supposedly low-calorie, only to have them ruin my diet in the end?

I have experienced this myself—during long clinical hours, I used to grab protein bars, telling myself they were healthy. It is completely understandable why patients struggle with this. However, the trap of "processed" diet snacks is significant. Artificial sweeteners provide pleasure to the tongue but throw the body's metabolic system into chaos. In Western medicine, sugar substitutes are noted for lowering insulin sensitivity, which interferes with blood sugar regulation when you consume actual food later. Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) links this phenomenon to Biheo (Spleen Qi Deficiency). When the Spleen, which governs digestion and absorption, weakens, it fails to convert food into energy, leaving behind metabolic residue. This residue is called Damyum (phlegm-fluid). Processed foods burden the digestive system, leading to an overproduction of Damyum. This is often why your body feels heavy or prone to swelling. When the circulation of Gi (Qi) and Blood is blocked, your body shifts into a constitution that gains weight much more easily than others. Rather than worrying about which snacks to choose, try to eat nutritionally complete meals to eliminate the craving for snacks altogether. If you find it difficult to control your appetite or if your body feels constantly fatigued, it is essential to flush out internal Damyum and restore your digestive function. I am here to help you navigate this process and restore your health.