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한의사 추천 가이드
한의사 추천 가이드

Q. I'm told to eat only chicken breast for weight loss, but what kind of diet is recommended from a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective?

A.

Rather than sticking to a single food, it is crucial to tailor your diet to your digestive capacity. While high-protein diets like chicken breast help maintain muscle mass, they can be burdensome for those with weak digestion. I recommend structuring your meals based on how your body responds.

📝 Detailed Answer

In the past, I once tried a restrictive diet of just chicken breast and sweet potatoes out of sheer determination. However, I eventually felt bloated and completely drained of energy. In TKM, this condition is referred to as Spleen Deficiency (Bi-Heo), where the Spleen's function is weakened, hindering the body's ability to properly absorb nutrients. Protein-centric diets have the clear advantage of preserving muscle mass and providing satiety. However, for those with poor digestive strength, such diets can be counterproductive. Specifically, overconsuming cold-natured foods or processed chicken breasts can lead to the accumulation of Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-Eum)—metabolic waste in the body—which can make your body feel heavier and more sluggish. Ultimately, the answer lies in your own 'digestive capacity.' For those who frequently experience indigestion or have a cold abdomen, incorporating warm-natured vegetables and moderate carbohydrates is far more efficient. Following a generic 'ideal' diet without considering your constitution often leads to early burnout. I suggest first assessing your current state—checking for the accumulation of Blood Stasis (Eo-Hyeol) or Phlegm-Fluid, and evaluating your digestive function. Adjusting your diet based on these factors will minimize physical strain and make your weight loss journey sustainable. Please feel free to ask if you have any further questions.
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Dr. Yeonseung Choe

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Dr. Yeonseung Choe

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