Q. I've been eating nothing but frozen chicken breast to lose weight; what is the recommended way to eat from a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective?

Many people struggle with bloating and fatigue when strictly adhering to a high-protein diet like chicken breast. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), digestive strength varies significantly from person to person. Here are the key points to consider when maintaining a high-protein diet: 1. Assessing Digestive Status: It is important to determine if you have 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛). If the Spleen's function is impaired, proteins are not properly broken down, leading to the accumulation of metabolic waste in the body. 2. Managing Phlegm-Fluid (Dameum, 痰飮): When undigested food stagnates in the body, it creates 'Dameum,' which can cause a feeling of heaviness and swelling. If you experience this, you should focus on warming the digestive system rather than forcing more protein intake. 3. Incorporating Warming Ingredients: Consuming frozen products that are not thoroughly warmed can further shrink gastric function. We recommend pairing proteins with vegetables that have warming properties, such as ginger or garlic, to stimulate gastrointestinal motility. 4. Promoting Qi and Blood Circulation: Extreme dietary restriction can deplete your energy, potentially leading to 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血), which slows down metabolism. Appropriate herbal prescriptions can help maintain circulation and prevent weight-loss plateaus. Ultimately, the focus should not be on 'what you eat,' but on 'whether your body can effectively process it.' Please visit our clinic if you need a customized dietary guide tailored to your current health status.