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한의사 추천 가이드
한의사 추천 가이드

Q. I can't completely quit drinking while on my diet. Is there a better alternative, like wine, that you would recommend?

A.

From a medical perspective, it's difficult to 'recommend' alcohol. However, if you must drink, a dry red wine with low sugar is the best alternative. More important than the type of alcohol is your current metabolic state and the timing of your consumption.

📝 Detailed Answer

To be honest, I understand the temptation of having 'just one glass' after work. However, from the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), all types of alcohol produce 'Seup-dam' (濕痰, phlegm-fluid retention), which refers to the accumulation of unnecessary metabolic waste that obstructs the flow of energy and fluids in the body. If you must choose, a dry wine is slightly better because its low sugar content prevents a rapid spike in blood glucose. Nevertheless, the drawback remains: alcohol temporarily halts fat burning. Furthermore, if you are in a state of 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Qi Deficiency), your liver and digestive functions are weakened, making it harder to detoxify and leaving you feeling much heavier the next day. Ultimately, the core issue is not which alcohol is better, but whether your body is currently capable of processing alcohol. For those with significant 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) or severe edema, even one or two glasses of wine can worsen swelling. Simply telling you to abstain completely can lead to unnecessary stress. That is why, when you visit the clinic, I first evaluate your current metabolic capacity. Understanding your body's specific condition and adjusting accordingly is the shortest path to a sustainable diet without the yo-yo effect. Let's find a manageable solution together.
#recommendation #pros-cons
Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Expert Verified

Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Chief Director

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