Q. I've been eating nothing but chicken breast to lose weight. How does a TKM clinic approach meal planning?

Many people experience fatigue and dizziness when relying solely on high-protein diets like chicken breast and sweet potatoes. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we recognize that every individual's digestive state is unique, and a one-size-fits-all diet can be counterproductive. Our approach follows a systematic process: First, we evaluate the digestive system for 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛). If your digestive function is impaired, insisting on a high-protein diet can actually lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body. Next, we focus on clearing 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮), which are metabolic waste products. If these metabolic pathways are blocked, you will feel lethargic and heavy regardless of how little you eat. Once digestive power is restored, we introduce proteins and vegetables in an optimal ratio that your body can actually absorb. Furthermore, we address 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) to ensure that nutrients are delivered efficiently throughout the entire body. This process allows you to preserve muscle mass while effectively utilizing body fat for energy. Ultimately, the key is not just 'what you eat,' but whether your body can 'digest and convert it into energy.' When you visit our clinic, we will thoroughly diagnose your current digestive state and design a sustainable, stress-free dietary plan tailored to your needs.