Q. What are some good diet-friendly drinks at Starbucks? I'd like to know which menu items a TKM doctor recommends.

I've personally made the mistake of relying on coffee to get through busy days in the past. Through that experience, I realized that 'zero calories' doesn't automatically mean it's beneficial for your body. On the positive side, Americanos and herbal teas contain very little sugar, which helps prevent blood glucose spikes. They also provide necessary hydration that helps prevent the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮)—phlegm-fluid or metabolic waste—making them great light choices. However, there are caveats. If you are sensitive to caffeine, it can cause palpitations or insomnia. In particular, those with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or a deficiency in the Spleen and digestive function, may find that drinking coffee on an empty stomach irritates the gastric mucosa and disrupts overall metabolism. Furthermore, those with a cold constitution should avoid insisting on iced drinks. This can exacerbate 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血), or blood stasis, which hinders circulation. This often leads to a feeling of heaviness in the body and can actually make it harder to lose weight. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your unique state. Whether you need to clear excess heat or add warmth to boost your metabolism will completely change the recommended menu. If you're curious about which drink best suits your constitution, please visit the clinic so we can determine the best option together.