Q. How should I incorporate protein supplements or shakes into my diet? I’m curious about the most effective approach from a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective.

Many people experience bloating and fatigue despite consuming high amounts of protein shakes. In TKM, this is often diagnosed as Spleen Deficiency (脾虛), where weakened digestive function leads to the accumulation of Phlegm-dampness (痰飮), a type of metabolic waste. To make protein truly effective, you must first strengthen your Spleen Qi to improve absorption. We recommend prioritizing whole foods like chicken breast or eggs because the act of chewing sends satiety signals to the brain and prepares the gut for digestion. Supplements should remain secondary; because powders bypass much of the mechanical digestive process, overconsumption can strain the liver and kidneys. From a TKM perspective, using small amounts only after exercise helps prevent Blood Stasis (瘀血). Additionally, customized herbal medicine can be used to activate metabolism and prevent muscle loss without relying solely on supplements. Before buying the next tub of protein, ensure your body is actually prepared to process those nutrients—that is the key to a sustainable diet without the yo-yo effect.