Q. I have to eat out while on a diet; what menu items would a TKM doctor recommend?

To be honest, choosing a menu during a company dinner is the biggest challenge for me too. I once insisted on eating only chicken breast and ended up socially isolated—quite a learning experience! (Laughs) First, I recommend meals where the raw ingredients remain intact, such as Ssam-bap, Shabu-shabu, or grilled fish. These are rich in dietary fiber, providing a quick feeling of fullness and preventing rapid blood sugar spikes, which slows down the accumulation of body fat. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), these choices are particularly effective in discharging 'Dameum' (痰飮)—the unnecessary waste products and fluid accumulations that build up in the body. Conversely, it is best to avoid fried foods or dishes with high-sugar sauces. If you are in a state of 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), meaning your Spleen function is weakened, these foods can burden your digestion and cause Qi stagnation. Of course, completely avoiding these while maintaining a social life is nearly impossible in reality. The key is adjustment based on the situation. For example, if you have a dinner party today, focus on unseasoned meats, and then eat lighter tomorrow. Obsessing over a strict diet can cause the body to tense up, which actually lowers your metabolic rate. Recommended menus can vary significantly depending on your individual digestive state and energy levels. If you consistently feel bloated or exhausted after eating out, I suggest visiting the clinic to first determine your specific constitution (Sasang constitution).