Q. How are diet plans from a Korean medicine clinic different from general diets? And how do I get started?

Many people attempt rigorous fasting with great enthusiasm, only to experience dizziness and a drop in cognitive productivity. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this is viewed not merely as 'hunger,' but as an imbalance in metabolic function. At Baengnokdam, our dietary approach follows four strategic phases: 1. Detoxification Phase: We begin with a diet designed to clear 'Dameum' (痰飮)—the accumulation of unnecessary fluids and metabolic waste in the body—to reduce edema and make the body feel lighter. 2. Digestive Recovery Phase: For those with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or a weakened Spleen/digestive function, nutrients aren't absorbed efficiently. We use gentle cooking methods that don't strain the digestive system to 'flip the switch' on your metabolism. 3. Circulation Promotion Phase: We incorporate ingredients that help resolve 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血)—stagnant blood—ensuring that essential nutrients are delivered to every cell in the body. 4. Sustainable Maintenance Phase: Since eating chicken breast forever is unrealistic, we help you identify which foods align or clash with your specific constitution (Sasang typology), teaching you how to manage your diet independently. Dietary management isn't a math problem with a single correct answer. However, by understanding your digestive strength and identifying where your metabolic flow is blocked, you can avoid trial-and-error and find the most comfortable, efficient path to health.