Q. I'm thinking of making something like a tofu gratin for my diet. As an Oriental Medical Doctor, would you recommend this kind of meal?

I have personally gone through a lot of trial and error trying to design the perfect diet, and I've realized that the ultimate answer is finding the foods that best suit your own body. First, tofu gratin has clear advantages. The plant-based protein in tofu helps prevent muscle loss, and its satiety level is ideal for curbing 'false hunger.' The addition of cheese provides psychological satisfaction, making it much easier to maintain a dietary regimen over the long term. However, there are points to consider from a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective. We place great importance on 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛). If your Spleen function is weak and your digestive absorption is low, consuming 'heavy' foods like tofu and cheese in excess can lead to bloating or dizziness. For those with an accumulation of 'phlegm-fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮) that hinders circulation, high-fat cheese can actually make the body feel more sluggish. Additionally, if you have significant 'blood stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) resulting in slow blood circulation, I recommend serving the dish warm rather than cold. In reality, there is no absolute 'right' answer. If you digest it well and feel energized, it is an ideal meal. However, if you experience discomfort after eating, you should reduce the portion or modify the ingredients. Pay close attention to your body's reactions. If you find it difficult to adjust your diet on your own, why not visit the clinic to have your current constitution and health status checked?