Q. When dieting, is it better to focus on protein shakes and specific meal plans, or would it be better to get help with herbal medicine?

In my own experience, I once tried to push through a diet consisting only of chicken breast and shakes, but I struggled with dizziness and digestive distress. I realized I was making a mistake by blindly focusing on protein intake without considering my body's limits. Protein-centric diets have clear advantages: they prevent muscle loss and provide a prolonged feeling of satiety. However, the downside is significant for those with weak digestive systems; instead of absorbing the protein, they often experience bloating and excessive gas. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this is viewed as 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛). When the function of the Spleen is weakened, high-quality protein is not properly assimilated into the body but can instead lead to the accumulation of toxins. Forcing protein shakes in this state can actually make the body feel heavier and more swollen. Conversely, the advantage of herbal weight loss medicine is that it 'flips the metabolic switch.' It helps resolve 'Dam-eum' (痰飮)—the accumulation of metabolic waste and unnecessary fluid stagnation—creating an optimal environment for burning body fat. The drawback is that if strong medications are used without considering the individual's constitution, it can lead to discomforts such as heart palpitations. Ultimately, rather than asking 'which is better,' the more important question is, 'Is my body currently in a state where it can digest protein?' If you suffer from poor digestion and a feeling of heaviness, I recommend starting with TKM management to normalize your metabolism first, while gradually adjusting your diet.