Tuna Ssamjang is a popular diet trend these days. As a practitioner of Traditional Korean Medicine, do you recommend this meal? Are there any precautions I should take?

Tuna Ssamjang is a very clever dietary alternative that captures both flavor and nutrition, especially when compared to the fatigue of a restricted chicken breast diet. The protein from the tuna and the saponins in the soybeans help replenish 'Qi and Blood' (Gi-hyeol), which are easily depleted during weight loss. Its high satiety factor is also excellent for overcoming the urge to overeat. However, there are clear points of caution. The primary issue is sodium; the saltiness of the paste can cause the body to retain water, leading to the formation of 'Dameum' (internal waste metabolites). If you are prone to morning edema in your hands and feet, you must significantly reduce the amount of paste used. Digestive health is another factor. Those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (Biheo) symptoms—characterized by a weak digestive system or a 'cold' abdomen—should be careful. Consuming an excessive amount of raw vegetables, which have a 'cold' property, can hinder metabolic functions and lead to abdominal pain. For a healthier approach, I recommend draining the oil from the tuna and adding mashed tofu to neutralize the saltiness. If your body remains heavy and weight loss plateaus despite these dietary adjustments, it may indicate a disruption in your internal circulation system rather than a simple caloric issue. In such cases, a professional TKM consultation can help identify the underlying cause.