Q. I've been eating only chicken breast hot bars for my diet. What is the Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective on this kind of meal plan?

I have actually experienced a similar situation in the past, where I focused too much on efficiency and simplified my diet too much, only to suffer from chronic bloating and indigestion. It was a lesson learned the hard way. If you rely solely on processed foods like chicken breast hot bars, there are several concerns from a TKM perspective. First, we must examine whether you are in a state of Spleen Deficiency (Bi-Heo, 脾虛). The Spleen is responsible for digestion and absorption; however, food additives and the inherently 'cold' nature of processed foods can erode this function. When Spleen function declines, you tend to feel lethargic and fatigue more easily. Furthermore, undigested food residues can accumulate in the body, leading to the formation of Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-Eum, 痰飮). An accumulation of Phlegm-Fluid makes the body feel heavy and obstructs circulation, creating an environment where weight loss actually becomes more difficult. Additionally, excessive sodium and preservatives in processed foods can make the blood turbid, potentially causing Blood Stasis (Eo-Hyeol, 瘀血) and inflammation. Therefore, I suggest a stepped approach: 1. Check your current digestion. If you feel bloated or gassy after eating these hot bars, your digestive power is likely already diminished. 2. Incorporate warm-natured ingredients. Adding cooked vegetables or drinking warm teas can help supplement and support Spleen function. 3. Gradually reduce the proportion of processed foods and increase your intake of whole proteins and dietary fibers. 4. Consider herbal medicine tailored to your constitution to boost your metabolism. It is essential to 'restart the engine' of your body rather than simply starving or restricting nutrients. Ultimately, the core issue is not 'what you eat less of,' but 'how your body processes what you eat.' If you visit the clinic, I can help you analyze your current digestive state and constitution to find a healthier balance.