Q. Can I eat sandwiches from places like Subway while dieting? What does a TKM clinic recommend?

Many people fail their diets because they insist on eating only salads, leading to dizziness and exhaustion. From a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, overly strict diets can actually be detrimental to your overall health. Here are some tips for choosing a Subway menu that aligns with TKM principles: First, choose whole-wheat bread (Wheat). It is rich in dietary fiber and raises blood sugar more slowly than refined white flour. However, if you suffer from 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency/weak digestive function), avoid overly coarse grains and choose a bread type that feels comfortable for your digestion. For the main protein, we recommend roasted chicken or turkey. Greasy processed meats can easily lead to the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid/metabolic waste) in the body. The goal is to fill your meal with clean proteins. While adding a variety of vegetables is great, feeling overly bloated after eating too many raw vegetables can be a sign of diminished digestive fire. In such cases, adjust the portion of vegetables or pair your meal with a warm herbal tea to aid digestion. Finally, be mindful of the sauces. Sauces high in sugar and saturated fats are primary culprits in creating 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) and accumulating waste. Stick to light options like olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Ultimately, the most important thing is to eat a meal that 'your body can handle.' If your digestive function is compromised, insisting on a rigid 'healthy diet' will only drain your energy. Let's work together to find a customized dietary plan that suits your current bodily constitution.