Q. I'm only drinking low-calorie beverages to lose weight; how should I manage my diet from a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective?

Many people start their diet with extreme restrictions—such as consuming only chicken breast and black coffee—only to experience dizziness and severe fatigue. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), it is crucial to assess your body's internal state rather than simply starving yourself. First, we must check for 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛). If the digestive functions are weakened, even nutrient-dense foods cannot be converted into energy and instead remain in the body as toxins. Once the digestive system is restored, we focus on clearing 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮), which are metabolic wastes. When these residues obstruct the space between blood vessels and cells, the metabolic rate inevitably slows down. Furthermore, resolving 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血)—stagnant blood—is essential for smooth circulation. Proper circulation increases the efficiency of fat burning and naturally reduces edema. Finally, by consuming foods tailored to your specific constitution (Sasang typology), you can stabilize your energy and eliminate 'false hunger.' Ultimately, weight loss is not a battle of numbers, but a matter of circulation. I advise you to identify your current physiological state and approach your diet systematically.