BRD Clinic
Only people currently living in Korea with their own Korean 010 mobile number can apply. Overseas residents are not eligible.

I just did a massive haul of diet foods from Costco. How should I structure my diet plan based on Traditional Korean Medicine?

It’s great that you're motivated! In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), dieting is about nurturing your 'Qi' (vital energy) rather than just cutting calories. You should first assess your digestive strength (Spleen Deficiency) and prioritize foods that help eliminate metabolic waste (Phlegm-Dampness). Finally, structure your meals to improve blood circulation (Blood Stasis) for the most effective results.

I completely understand the feeling of filling a giant Costco cart with healthy intentions and then feeling overwhelmed. From a TKM perspective, success lies in aligning these foods with your internal balance. First, identify if you have **Spleen Deficiency (Biheo, 脾虛)**. Many people buy bulk salads and cold yogurt, but these can be counterproductive for those with a 'cold' constitution. If your Spleen function is weak, even healthy food turns into fat instead of energy. If you often feel bloated, try blanched vegetables or warm soups instead of raw greens. Second, focus on clearing **Phlegm-Dampness (Tan-eum, 痰飮)**. This refers to the accumulated metabolic waste in the body. Utilize whole grains and high-fiber foods to clear your digestive tract. When shopping, try to prioritize seafood or plant-based proteins like soy over fatty meats to keep your system clean. Third, manage **Blood Stasis (Eohyeol, 瘀血)**. Often, weight loss plateaus because of poor circulation. You can use Costco’s bulk nuts and Omega-3-rich salmon to help purify the blood. When your blood flows smoothly, your body can burn body fat much more efficiently. Finally, if managing a diet alone feels overwhelming, herbal medicine can be a wise supplement. It helps boost deficient Qi while actively removing excess Phlegm-Dampness. I recommend visiting a TKM clinic to get a personalized 'real' diet guide tailored specifically to your body's unique constitution.

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Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Dr. Yeonseung ChoeChief Director

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