Q. I'm thinking about trying a ketogenic diet. How does your clinic guide patients through this?

The core of the ketogenic diet is shifting the body's primary energy source to fat. However, the 'fat-burning capacity' varies significantly by individual. Many experience dizziness and lethargy when starting abruptly; from a TKM perspective, this often occurs in those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛), where weakened digestive and absorptive functions cannot sustain sudden dietary shifts. At Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic, we take the following systematic approach: 1. Metabolic Assessment: We evaluate the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid retention/metabolic waste). High levels of these waste products can hinder the efficiency of fat oxidation. 2. Constitution-Based Carb Settings: Instead of a strict 'zero-carb' approach, we determine the minimum amount of high-quality carbohydrates suitable for your specific constitution to prevent undue strain on the liver and muscles. 3. Management of Blood Stasis (瘀血) and Inflammation: By resolving 'Eohyeol' (blood stasis) that obstructs circulation, we help the body rapidly expel metabolic byproducts, which reduces the likelihood of reactions such as 'keto rash.' 4. Energy Supplementation: When energy drops due to dietary restrictions, we provide herbal medicine to replenish Qi and Blood, ensuring a sustainable diet that does not lead to burnout. More important than simply restricting certain foods is whether your body is physiologically prepared to handle the shift. We invite you to check your current health status with us to find the optimal pace for your body.