Q. As an office worker, I often have company dinners and eat out. How can I manage my diet while following a Traditional Korean Medicine weight loss program?

It is understandably difficult to resist the temptation of dining out, especially with the social pressures of Korean office culture. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), obesity is often attributed to Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo), a state where the digestive system is weakened. This leads to the accumulation of Phlegm-Rheum (Dam-eum), which are metabolic byproducts that obstruct the flow of Qi and blood. To manage dining out, follow these five TKM principles: First, consume fiber-rich vegetables or salads first to stabilize blood sugar and prevent the formation of Dam-eum. Second, avoid drinking cold water during meals as it cools down Spleen Qi (Bi-gi), the essential energy for digestion; opt for warm tea instead. Third, chew each bite at least 30 times to prevent Food Stagnation (Sik-jeok), a primary cause of weight gain where undigested food clusters in the body. Fourth, choose grilled or steamed dishes over spicy and salty ones, as excessive seasoning can lead to Blood Stagnation (Eo-hyeol) and cause edema. Finally, a light 15-minute walk after eating ensures that the energy from the food circulates throughout the entire body rather than stagnating. By following these guidelines, you can maintain your progress even during social gatherings.