Q. Can I eat only sweet potatoes while dieting? I'm curious about how Oriental medicine clinics design their meal plans.

Many people start a diet with great enthusiasm by consuming only one type of food, but this often leads to sudden fatigue and dizziness because it ignores the body's overall balance. From a TKM perspective, root vegetables like sweet potatoes are excellent energy sources. However, for those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛, Bi-heo)—a condition where digestive function is weakened—eating only sweet potatoes can lead to bloating and gas. In such cases, improving digestive capacity is the priority before restricting the diet. At Baekrokdam Clinic, we approach weight loss through the following systematic process: 1. Identifying 'Waste Products': We assess the accumulation of 'Blood Stasis' (瘀血, Eo-hyeol—stagnant blood) and 'Phlegm-Fluid' (痰飮, Dam-eum—unnecessary fluid buildup). If these are prevalent, weight loss is difficult even with low calorie intake. 2. Activating the Metabolic Switch: We use herbal medicine to increase the basal metabolic rate, creating an internal environment where the body burns energy more efficiently. 3. Customized Meal Planning: We incorporate complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, but adjust the portions based on the individual's digestive strength. 4. Enhancing Circulation: We combine dietary guidance with acupuncture to improve the flow of Qi and Blood, reducing edema and activating metabolism. Ultimately, the most important factor is not 'what you eat,' but 'how your body processes it.' By accurately understanding your physical state first, you can achieve a much more sustainable and easier weight loss journey.