As a busy office worker, I'm considering a diet based on McDonald's burgers. What is your perspective as a practitioner of Korean Medicine?
While the ease of tracking calories is a benefit for a busy lifestyle, the high sodium content in burgers leads to the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (Phlegm-rheum), a type of metabolic waste. This often results in edema and a significant drop in metabolic rate. Instead of focusing solely on calorie counts, focus on restoring internal organ functions so your body can burn energy efficiently on its own for long-term health.
I deeply empathize with your situation, as I once tried to manage my own weight with burgers during my busiest years of study and practice. While burgers offer the convenience of clear calorie tracking and taste, they pose significant concerns from a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective. The processed ingredients and excessive sodium tend to leave behind 'Dam-eum' (Phlegm-rheum), a metabolic byproduct. If your body feels heavy every morning or you suffer from frequent bloating, it is likely this waste hindering your circulation. Furthermore, a diet centered on greasy, processed foods can lead to 'Biheo' (Spleen deficiency), a state where your digestive and metabolic functions weaken to the point that you stop losing weight even when eating very little. I recommend focusing on the root causes of weight retention by using TKM prescriptions to resolve 'Eohyeol' (Blood stasis) and promote the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood. Transitioning toward a natural diet while restoring your body's natural balance will lead to a much more sustainable and healthy transformation.
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