I have to eat out while on a diet; as a TKM doctor, what menus would you recommend?
While there is no single right answer, I recommend 'whole-food centered' meals where the natural ingredients are preserved. Opt for menus rich in protein and vegetables with mild seasoning. Since the ideal food varies by constitution and digestive state, the most important thing is to carefully observe how your body reacts.
To be honest, even I hesitate in front of the menu when I have to eat out between consultations; it is not easy for a doctor to maintain a perfect diet every single day. Through trial and error, I have realized that the answer always lies in 'minimally processed foods.'
Personally, I recommend menus such as Shabu-shabu, Ssambap (rice wraps with leafy vegetables), or grilled fish. These allow you to get dietary fiber and protein simultaneously, and because the cooking methods are simple, you consume fewer unnecessary sugars. In particular, eating vegetables first is effective in preventing blood sugar spikes.
However, there are things to be mindful of. Restaurant food tends to be heavily seasoned, which can lead to excessive sodium intake. This can cause the accumulation of 'Dameum' (痰飮)—phlegm-fluid or metabolic waste—which makes the body feel swollen and heavy. Additionally, those with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or a deficiency in the Spleen/digestive function, may suffer from indigestion or stomach upset if they consume too many cold foods.
Ultimately, 'how your body reacts' is more important than 'what you eat.' Some people thrive on meat, while others with a lot of 'Eohyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) may feel more comfortable with a light, plant-based diet. If you feel exceptionally heavy or bloated after dining out, it may be a sign that the food does not suit your constitution. Please visit the clinic so we can analyze this together.
Clinician review