Is there a healthy way to enjoy the low-calorie diet ice creams that are popular these days?
Even as a practitioner, the temptation of sweets is hard to resist. However, rather than simply focusing on low calorie counts, you must consider the body's digestive mechanism. Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) views the cold nature of such foods as a cause for decreased metabolism. Instead of total abstinence, try controlling your portions and timing. I recommend a gradual approach, such as soothing the stomach with warm water, to enjoy these treats wisely without harming your body's vital energy.
Resisting ice cream while dieting is a difficult task. From a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, here are five secrets to enjoying it healthily: First, assess your constitutional state. Those with Spleen Deficiency (脾虛), characterized by frequent bloating or poor digestion, should be cautious, as cold energy further slows metabolism. Second, let it melt slightly at room temperature. TKM warns against 'Cold Pathogens' (寒邪) hitting the stomach directly; reducing the chill prevents stomach muscle contraction. Third, drink warm tea to prevent 'Phlegm-fluid' (痰飮). Cold foods disrupt water metabolism, but ginger or oolong tea can stop the digestive tract from becoming excessively chilled. Fourth, eat it while the sun is up. At night, the body’s Yang Qi (陽氣) rests, and cold stimuli during this time can lead to Blood Stasis (瘀血) due to stagnant circulation. Finally, hold the ice cream in your mouth to warm it before swallowing. This small habit protects your metabolic efficiency from sudden temperature shocks.
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