I often eat Subway sandwiches as part of my diet. Which cheese should I choose? I’d love to hear your recommendation, Doctor.
I recommend Mozzarella for its lower sodium content or Shredded cheese for its rich flavor. While cheese is an excellent protein source, it can cause 'Dampness' (濕) to accumulate depending on your constitution, leading to physical swelling. I once overindulged in cheese myself and struggled with a bloated stomach all afternoon. Most importantly, you should choose based on your own digestive capacity.
Subway is an excellent option for busy professionals; I often grab a sandwich myself between patient consultations. Let me share my advice on choosing cheese through the lens of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM). First, the benefits: Mozzarella is relatively low in sodium. In TKM, excessive salt intake is believed to cause 'Water Toxin' (水毒), a condition where fluid metabolism stagnates and causes the body to swell. Minimally processed cheese also serves as a high-quality protein that supplements 'Qi' (氣), and its healthy fats provide long-lasting satiety, which helps prevent overeating at your next meal. However, you must be cautious: processed slices like American cheese contain many additives. These are prone to creating 'Phlegm-Rheum' (痰飮), or metabolic waste toxins, which can hinder your weight loss progress. If you typically have 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛), you may find dairy difficult to digest, leading to bloating or even dizziness. Even I regret it when I eat cheese on days I feel physically drained, as it weighs heavily on my stomach. Ultimately, your digestive health is the key indicator. If your face swells easily in the morning or you have loose stools, try skipping the cheese entirely. Conversely, if you lack muscle mass and feel low on energy, adding Mozzarella will help you sustain your diet over the long term without exhaustion.
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