Q. Many people recommend Subway for dieting. Which menu items do you recommend, Doctor?

To be honest, I used to grab Subway for quick meals when I was busy. However, I often suffered from bloating and indigestion after assuming it was simply a 'healthy' choice. I believe many of you have had similar experiences. Let's first look at the benefits. The ability to consume plenty of fresh raw vegetables is a major advantage. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), dietary fiber helps prevent the accumulation of Dam-eum (痰飮)—the sticky bodily fluids and metabolic waste products that lead to stagnation. Protein-focused options like Roast Chicken are also excellent for maintaining muscle mass during weight loss. However, there are precautions. First, the sauces are problematic; they often contain high levels of sugar and sodium, which can undermine your dieting efforts. You must also consider the bread. Breads high in refined carbohydrates can spike blood glucose levels, promoting the accumulation of body fat. Specifically, those with a Bi-heo (脾虛) constitution—meaning weakened Spleen function—may experience excessive bloating and a loss of energy if they consume too many raw vegetables. I remember a time when I insisted on raw vegetables out of sheer willpower, only to feel dizzy and lethargic all day. Ultimately, there is no single 'perfect' menu; the key is your current physiological state. Your recommended menu and sauce should vary depending on whether you suffer from chronic indigestion or have an Eo-hyeol (瘀血) constitution characterized by severe edema and blood stasis. If you visit the clinic, I will assess your current condition and help you create a customized dietary guide that is most comfortable for your body.