Q. I can't avoid eating out entirely while on a diet. What menus would you recommend when choosing a restaurant?

To be honest, I am also human and struggle with food cravings; choosing a menu while socializing can be quite a challenge. In the past, I even had the misguided experience of stubbornly sticking only to salads out of sheer willpower, which eventually led to binge eating. The key to recommended menus is to maintain satiety while keeping blood sugar spikes gradual. Foods rich in dietary fiber—such as Shabu-shabu, Ssambap, and grilled fish—slow down the absorption of glucose and keep you feeling full. Eating whole foods in this manner reduces the accumulation of 'Dameum' (痰飮)—the metabolic waste or phlegm-fluid in TKM—which in turn improves overall metabolic efficiency. There are, however, a few precautions. Even a seemingly healthy Bibimbap can lead to a sudden increase in sugar and fat intake if you add too much gochujang (red chili paste) or sesame oil. Furthermore, relying too heavily on cold foods can lead to 'Pi-heo' (脾虛), or Spleen Deficiency, which weakens digestive power and can cause the body to feel bloated or swollen. Ultimately, 'what you eat' is less important than 'what your body can currently accept.' Some may require foods with warming properties, while others may urgently need a light diet to resolve 'Eohyeol' (瘀血), or blood stasis. We can find a customized dining guide that suits your specific constitution and digestive state to make your weight loss journey much smoother.