Q. I'm planning to eat only chicken breast for my diet; what kind of meal plan do you recommend at your clinic?

Many people start their weight loss journey with a strict regimen of chicken breast and sweet potatoes. While you may see an initial drop in weight, this often leads to sudden fatigue and dizziness because the body lacks a balanced supply of nutrients. The advantage of a chicken-breast-centric diet is clear: it provides long-lasting satiety and minimizes muscle loss, making it convenient for busy professionals. However, the drawbacks are significant. Excessive protein intake can degrade the gut environment, leading to constipation and overloading the digestive system. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this state is often identified as 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or Spleen Deficiency. When the Spleen's function is impaired, even high-quality protein cannot be absorbed efficiently and may instead leave metabolic toxins in the body. Furthermore, those prone to indigestion or swelling often have an accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid) or 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis). Forcing a high-protein diet into such a system can make the body feel heavier and more sluggish. Ultimately, the key is your individual 'digestive power.' While chicken breast can be beneficial for someone with a strong constitution, those with Spleen Deficiency should incorporate warm-natured vegetables and appropriate grains. We recommend determining your specific constitution and current metabolic state before finalizing your diet.