Q. I'm craving chicken so much while on my diet; how should I manage this from a TKM perspective?

I completely understand the struggle; many people try to force themselves to eat only chicken breast, only to end up binge-eating fried chicken late at night. Experience shows that absolute prohibition is rarely the answer. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), excessive intake of greasy foods can lead to a state called 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum), which refers to the accumulation of metabolic waste and stagnant fluids in the body. This can make your body feel heavy and slow down your metabolism. In particular, those with Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo) may experience significant digestive distress and bloating after consuming oily foods. Here is my recommended 'Smart Approach to Chicken': 1. Change the Cooking Method: Choose roasted chicken over fried. This is the first step in reducing the formation of Phlegm-Fluid. 2. Prioritize Fiber: Eat a sufficient amount of salad first. This prepares the intestinal environment and slows down the absorption of fats. 3. Pair with Warm Tea: Instead of cold drinks, try warm tea. Maintaining the temperature of the gastrointestinal tract is essential for smooth fat breakdown. 4. Maintain Fasting the Next Day: If you overeat, skip breakfast or eat very lightly the next morning to give your stomach time to rest. The key is managing intake to a level your body can actually handle. If you find it impossible to control your cravings through willpower alone, it may be a sign that your general Qi and energy levels need balancing. If you visit the clinic, we can analyze your constitution to find a personalized way to regulate your appetite.