Q. Diet pastas and alternative noodles are really popular these days. As a TKM doctor, which ones do you recommend?

I have also experimented with various trending diet plans in the past. However, I found that forcing myself to eat flour substitutes eventually led to bloating and dizziness. Speaking from personal experience, I want to be honest with you. The advantages of alternative noodles are clear: they are efficient for weight management as they are low in calories and do not cause rapid spikes in blood glucose. They serve as an excellent alternative for office workers who struggle with meal planning. However, the drawbacks cannot be ignored. When excessive sugar substitutes or fiber supplements are added, those with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛)—a deficiency in the Spleen function—often experience abdominal bloating and indigestion. For individuals predisposed to the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮), which refers to metabolic waste or phlegm-fluid retention, processed foods can further hinder metabolism. Ultimately, the key is not 'what is generally good,' but 'how your specific body reacts.' If you typically suffer from poor digestion or frequent edema, I recommend gradually increasing a whole-food-based diet rather than relying on processed alternative noodles. Once you understand your digestive capacity and metabolic state, you will be able to make much more comfortable choices. If you are curious about your specific condition, please visit the clinic so we can discuss it together.