Q. I'm focusing on a high-protein diet for weight loss. What are the dietary recommendations from a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective?

Many people experience bloating and discomfort by obsessively eating chicken breast without considering their body's response. In TKM, 'digestive efficiency' is far more important than the absolute amount of protein consumed. Here is a step-by-step approach from a TKM perspective: 1. Assessing Digestive Function: First, we must check for 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or Spleen Deficiency. If your digestive power is weak, high-protein foods are not properly broken down, leading to stagnation in the gut. 2. Clearing 'Dam-eum' (痰飮): Undigested waste products and metabolic by-products are referred to as 'Dam-eum' (phlegm-fluid). If you continue to force-feed protein while in this state, it can lead to increased edema and a feeling of heaviness in the body. 3. Customized Protein Selection: For those with weak digestion, it is recommended to start with 'gentle' proteins, such as fish or tofu, rather than heavy meats. 4. Managing 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血) and Circulation: When blood stasis (Eo-hyeol) occurs, nutrients cannot be efficiently delivered to the muscles. Utilizing herbal medicine or acupuncture to improve circulation enhances the efficiency of protein absorption. Ultimately, the priority is whether your body can actually digest what you eat. If you would like a personalized protein intake guide based on your current digestive health, please visit our clinic for a consultation.