Q. Is it okay to replace my meals with substitutes like soy milk when dieting? I'm wondering what the best way to consume them is.

I have actually experienced bloating and discomfort in the past while relying solely on soy milk for diet management; despite my professional expertise, I made some trial-and-error mistakes. From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), digestive health varies significantly from person to person. In particular, those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛)—where the function of the Spleen and Stomach is weak—may find that continuous intake of cold beverages further contracts gastrointestinal function. This creates an environment prone to the accumulation of 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮), which are metabolic waste products. Here are a few tips for using meal substitutes healthily: First, drink it warm. Warming the soy milk helps relax the gastrointestinal tract and improves absorption. Second, check the sugar content on the nutrition label; excessive sugar causes rapid blood glucose spikes, which can lead to 'false hunger' more quickly. Additionally, instead of consuming it alone, try pairing it with light vegetables. The inclusion of dietary fiber regulates digestion speed and prolongs the feeling of satiety. Most importantly, monitor your body's reaction. If you experience excessive bloating or gas after drinking soy milk, it is likely that this specific diet is not compatible with your current constitution. Rather than a diet based on blind endurance, finding a method that your body comfortably accepts is the shortest path to preventing the yo-yo effect. I suggest we assess your current digestive state together to design a customized meal plan.