Q. I eat a lot of chicken breast for my diet; how does a TKM clinic recommend consuming it?

Many people struggle with indigestion and fatigue when they strictly adhere to a dry chicken breast diet. The most important factor is not just the cooking method, but how your body absorbs the nutrients without compromising your digestive fire. First, thaw the meat slowly. Boiling frozen chicken directly can cause protein denaturation and introduce 'cold energy' into the body, which easily leads to the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (phlegm-fluid retention), a type of metabolic waste. It is best to move it to the refrigerator the day before. When cooking, incorporate warm-natured herbs and vegetables. While chicken breast generally has a neutral property, it can be burdensome for those with Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo). Adding sufficient ginger, garlic, and green onions is a key TKM point to facilitate the circulation of Qi and Blood while removing unpleasant odors. In terms of texture, maintain moisture. Overcooking until the meat becomes too dry increases the time it stays in the stomach, often leading to indigestion. Keeping it tender ensures that energy flows smoothly throughout the body. Lastly, pair it with warm-natured vegetables. Instead of cold raw salads, we recommend lightly blanched vegetables or seasoned Namul. This helps resolve 'Eo-hyeol' (blood stasis), optimizes metabolism, and increases the efficiency of your weight loss. Ultimately, the core is eating at a level your digestive system can handle, as constitutions vary by individual. If you are curious about a specific diet tailored to your digestive state, please visit us for a personalized consultation.