Q. I keep binge eating when I'm stressed. How can I solve this?

Stress-induced binge eating is a common issue in modern life. In TKM, it is viewed as a combination of Liver Depression (gan yu) and Spleen Deficiency (pi xu). Accumulated stress causes Liver Qi stagnation (gan qi yu jie), which weakens Spleen function, leading to Phlegm-Fluid (tan yin) or Food Accumulation (shi ji) that triggers binge urges. Treatment begins with herbs that soothe the Liver and regulate Qi (shu gan li qi) to reduce anxiety and impulsive eating over 1–2 weeks. Simultaneously, tonifying the Spleen (jian pi) stabilizes digestion and energy metabolism. Based on clinical experience, medication alone is not enough—lifestyle habits must change. In the first month, patients typically notice fewer cravings and improved satiety after meals. By 2–3 months, a new pattern emerges where stress no longer triggers binge eating. Individual results vary, and it is best to approach this not as a weight-loss goal but as a way to transform how your body handles stress.