Q. I'm planning my diet around Subway sandwiches to lose weight. Which combinations would you recommend from a TKM perspective?

To be honest, I've had my own struggles in the past while following trendy diets. I once tried eating only chicken breast and vegetables without any sauce, but after a few days, I felt completely drained and dizzy. From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this type of diet has distinct pros and cons. First, the abundance of dietary fiber improves the gut environment and helps eliminate 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, accumulated metabolic waste in the body) by reducing the intake of processed foods. Since it prevents blood sugar spikes, you will likely feel much lighter. However, there are precautions. If you have a 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency) constitution—meaning your digestive function is inherently weak—consuming large amounts of raw vegetables can lead to bloating and diarrhea. In particular, an excess of 'cold-natured' vegetables can make the lower abdomen feel chilled, which may actually slow down your overall metabolism. Therefore, rather than looking for a single 'correct' answer, I recommend tailoring your choice to your own physical condition. If your digestion is slow, slightly reduce the amount of raw vegetables. Do not cut out sauces entirely; instead, use mild options like olive oil or black pepper to create a sustainable eating plan. What truly matters is not just what you put in your mouth, but how your body processes it. If you are curious about your current constitutional state, please visit the clinic so we can evaluate it together.