What criteria does a Korean medicine clinic use for a protein-focused diet?
Rather than increasing protein indiscriminately, first assess digestion and possible Spleen qi deficiency, then consider phlegm-fluid accumulation, blood stasis, and constitution to adjust protein type and amount gradually and safely.
Protein can help maintain muscle during weight loss, but increasing the amount does not mean it will all be absorbed. First check for signs that the current diet is difficult to handle, such as post-meal bloating, gas, or low energy.
Korean medicine may interpret excessive protein in a Spleen qi deficiency pattern with weak digestion as contributing to retained food and heaviness associated with phlegm-fluid accumulation. Signs of circulatory discomfort viewed as blood stasis are also assessed.
The type and amount of animal protein such as meat and of plant protein are then considered differently according to constitution and digestive capacity. Herbal medicine or acupuncture may be considered as support when needed, but the goal is not to eat as much protein as possible; it is to find a diet the body can use without excessive burden.
Clinician review