Q. I'm considering a healthy meal like tofu gratin for my diet plan. What kind of diet would you recommend as a Traditional Korean Medicine doctor?

In the past, I myself was overly eager and insisted only on chicken breast and tofu—a real 'futile effort.' At first, my body felt lighter, but then suddenly my energy dropped and I felt dizzy. Tofu gratin certainly has merits: it provides good satiety, high-quality plant protein, and does not spike blood sugar, which helps with weight management. However, there is a caution. In Traditional Korean Medicine, when the spleen is deficient (脾虛, biheo)—meaning the spleen's function is weakened—consuming too much cold or heavy food can actually become harmful. If you insist on a high-protein diet while your digestion is compromised, you will inevitably feel bloated and gassy. Ultimately, the recommended diet depends on your body's condition. If metabolic waste like phlegm-rheum (痰飮, dameum) has accumulated and slowed metabolism, you should start with light vegetables. If blood stasis (瘀血, eohyeol) is prominent and blood circulation is poor, you need to include warming ingredients. Rather than blindly following a diet that others claim is good, first check whether your digestive organs are ready to accept that food. When you visit our clinic, we will assess your current constitution and digestive state and work with you to design a dietary guide that you can sustain without stress.