Q. I'm struggling with a diet of only chicken breast. What kind of dietary plan do Korean medicine clinics recommend?

Hello, I am Director Choi Yeon-seung of Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. It is heartbreaking to see patients restrict themselves to just chicken breast and sweet potatoes. I once tried a strict chicken breast diet myself to build muscle, only to end up nauseous and lethargic. This experience taught me that the human body is a delicate organism. In Traditional Korean Medicine, we follow a systematic approach to weight loss. First, we clear metabolic waste such as Phlegm-fluid (Dameum) and Blood Stasis (Eohyeol). If you consume excessive protein while these toxins are present, it can be counterproductive. We begin by 'emptying' the body through a vegetable-centered diet that promotes circulation. Next, we address Spleen Qi Deficiency (Bi-heo). When the Spleen function is weak, the body fails to convert food into energy and instead stores it as fat. High-protein foods like chicken breast can further burden a weak digestive system. We recommend warm-natured foods to restore digestive fire and improve metabolic efficiency. Third, we replenish Qi (vital energy) and Blood to boost metabolism. Symptoms like hair loss or dizziness during a diet are 'SOS signals' from your body. We use customized herbal medicine to provide energy while gradually adjusting food intake to minimize physiological shock. Finally, we establish a sustainable diet tailored to your specific constitution. Everyone has different digestive capacities and internal heat levels. Finding foods that your body accepts comfortably is the surest way to prevent the yo-yo effect. Let’s work together to find the perfect plan for you.