I get so hungry when I'm on a diet. What snacks do TKM doctors usually recommend?
Starving yourself while dieting leads to quick burnout, so it's vital to choose snacks wisely. Natural options like nuts and vegetable sticks provide satiety and replenish essential nutrients. However, be cautious with processed 'diet' foods, as they often stimulate appetite or hinder digestion. Most importantly, snacks should be selected according to your unique digestive state and physical constitution (Chejil).
It is common to experience shakiness and a drop in concentration late in the afternoon. In Traditional Korean Medicine, this state of low energy and craving for sweets is often referred to as Spleen Deficiency (Biheo). When the Spleen function is weak, the body fails to produce sufficient energy, making you susceptible to 'false hunger.' In these moments, natural snacks like roasted oats or almonds are excellent. The act of chewing sends satiety signals to the brain while simultaneously replenishing your depleted Qi. Conversely, you should be cautious with 'zero-calorie' snacks or highly processed protein bars. These often contain artificial sweeteners which are generally cold in nature and can lead to the accumulation of Phlegm-fluid (Dameum), a type of internal metabolic waste. If you tend to suffer from edema or poor digestion, these can actually hinder your metabolism. Since no single food is perfect for everyone, a cup of warm tea may be the best 'medicine' for those with weak digestion, while nuts are better for those with high activity levels. Tailoring your snacks to your specific constitution is the key to a sustainable diet without the yo-yo effect.
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