Q. Many people eat only chicken breast when dieting. From the perspective of a Korean Medicine Doctor, what kind of diet do you recommend?

Chicken breast is iconic for dieting, but consuming it incorrectly can cause issues. In Traditional Korean Medicine, chicken breast is known to supplement Qi and strengthen muscle tissues. It is particularly beneficial for those with 'Biheo' (Spleen Deficiency) who lack energy or experience muscle sagging. However, because chicken breast is naturally dry, over-reliance on it can lead to 'Dameum'—waste products that stagnate in the body. Specifically, a diet of cold salads and chicken breast can lower the stomach's temperature, obstructing the vital circulation of Qi and Blood. Therefore, I recommend boiling or steaming it with 'warm' ingredients like ginger or garlic to prevent 'Eohyeol' (Blood Stasis) and ensure smooth digestion. The key is not just what you eat, but how well your body can process it. Balancing your meals with cooked vegetables to keep the digestive system warm is far more effective for healthy weight loss.