Q. When I'm stressed, I keep binge eating. How does Traditional Korean Medicine approach this?

Stress-induced binge eating is a common and distressing issue that I often hear about from patients as a Korean medicine doctor. In TKM, stress obstructs liver qi, which transforms into fire and disturbs the heart, thereby disrupting the central appetite regulation. This process also weakens spleen function (spleen deficiency), impairing digestion and absorption while creating a vicious cycle of craving more food. Treatment is approached in stages. During the first 1–2 weeks, we focus on 'putting out the acute fire' by relieving liver depression and descending heart fire using herbs such as Bupleurum (siho) and Gardenia (chija) along with acupuncture. Many patients report feeling noticeably less anxious during this period. In months 1–2, we tonify the spleen and continue soothing liver qi. As spleen function improves, the body begins to recognize genuine nutritional needs and emotional hunger diminishes. Outwardly, meal rhythms stabilize and binge episodes become less frequent. After 3 months, the goal is to solidify lifestyle habits suited to your constitution—for example, exercise for those with severe liver depression, or adequate sleep and regular meal spacing for those with pronounced spleen deficiency. At this stage, the aim is to reach a state where you don't have to struggle to control yourself. Individual differences exist, and if the stress triggers themselves are overwhelming, progress may take longer. However, with a structured, stepwise approach, change is definitely achievable. I recommend seeking a consultation without feeling burdened.