Q. I'm focusing on salads, like from Subway, for my diet. How should I structure my meals from a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective?

Many people follow trending diets only to find themselves hungry yet bloated and fatigued. From a TKM perspective, this isn't just about calories. First, we must examine whether you are in a state of 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-Heo, 脾虛). If someone with a weak spleen consumes excessive amounts of cold salads or raw vegetables, the temperature of the gastrointestinal tract drops, significantly reducing the activity of digestive enzymes. This leads to poor nutrient absorption and the accumulation of 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-Eum, 痰飮)—metabolic waste that can actually hinder weight loss. At Baekrokdam, we recommend the following stepped approach: 1. Digestive Audit: Check if you typically experience stomach discomfort after eating cold foods. 2. Temperature Regulation: When eating salads, pair them with warm soups or increase the proportion of cooked vegetables to protect the stomach's temperature. 3. Improving Circulation: Metabolic rates increase when 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-Hyeol, 瘀血)—stagnant blood and waste—is effectively cleared. Using warm-natured teas or herbal medicines can make this process much more efficient. 4. Customized Energy Replenishment: Rather than extreme calorie restriction, consuming the right amount of protein and carbohydrates tailored to your constitution is essential to maintain a basal metabolic rate and prevent the 'yo-yo' effect. Dieting is not about 'eating less,' but about creating a 'body that burns well.' Let's determine together if your body is currently prepared to process a raw-vegetable-heavy diet.