Q. I'm an office worker and eat out frequently. What kind of diet plan do Korean medicine clinics usually recommend for weight loss?

Having experienced the pitfalls of sticking to salads only to find my energy drained and productivity plummeting, I want to provide a realistic guide based on those trials. First, choose menus that prevent the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid retention). Dam-eum refers to a state where metabolic waste clumps and stagnates in the body. To avoid this, opt for steamed or boiled foods over flour-based dishes or greasy fried foods. It is also crucial to check if you are experiencing 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency). If your digestive capacity is low due to a weakened Spleen, consuming raw vegetables can lead to bloating and further energy depletion. In such cases, the correct approach is to prioritize warm-natured cooked vegetables and proteins. Additionally, consider 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) and use seasonings that promote blood circulation. When blood circulation is poor and the blood becomes 'turbid,' you may feel that weight loss is particularly stagnant. Natural flavorings like vinegar, ginger, and garlic are more effective at boosting metabolism than salty sauces. After meals, a light walk is recommended to facilitate the circulation of Qi and Blood; staying sedentary makes it easier for Dam-eum to accumulate again. Weight loss is not merely about cutting calories, but a process of restarting your body's metabolic engine. To determine which specific foods best suit your constitution, we recommend a professional pulse diagnosis at our clinic.