Q. Is it okay to diet using processed foods like chicken breast hot bars? How do you design meal plans at your clinic?

I completely understand why busy professionals rely on processed options like chicken breast hot bars; I've been there myself during hectic times. However, from a TKM perspective, these processed foods can easily induce 'Dameum' (痰飮)—a type of metabolic waste or phlegm-fluid retention that occurs when the body's fluid metabolism is disrupted. At Baengnokdam Clinic, we structure your dietary plan through the following stages: First, we assess whether you have 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), which refers to a deficiency in the Spleen function. If your digestive power is weak, forcing high-protein processed foods into your system can actually lead to increased bloating and a feeling of heaviness. Next, we focus on clearing 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) and 'Dameum' to open up your metabolic pathways. Only when these channels are clear can the food you eat be converted into energy rather than being stored as fat. We recommend gradually reducing processed foods in favor of whole, minimally processed ingredients. Additives found in processed meats often hinder the circulation of Qi and Blood, which can slow down your weight loss progress. Finally, we design a nutritional plan tailored to your specific constitution (Sasang typology). Since every individual reacts differently to ingredients, some may benefit from warming foods while others need cooling foods to boost metabolism. Balancing your body's internal harmony is the secret to preventing the yo-yo effect. Diets based on extreme restriction often lead to binge eating. It is far more efficient to first evaluate your digestive health and then develop a personalized eating strategy together.