Q. There are so many diet snacks sold at places like Olive Young these days. Which ones do you recommend as a TKM doctor?

To be honest, I have a bit of a sweet tooth myself, and I've often struggled with stomach upset after trying various new diet snacks thinking they would be healthy. It can be quite an ordeal. Commercial diet snacks generally fall into two categories: those using sugar substitutes and those with increased protein. Their advantage is clear; they quickly satisfy psychological cravings and boredom, which significantly reduces the stress of dieting. However, from a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, there are things to consider. Foods high in sugar substitutes can easily cause abdominal bloating or diarrhea in patients with 'Bi-heo' (Spleen Deficiency), where the digestive function of the Spleen is weakened. Additionally, snacks with excessively high protein content can actually lower metabolic efficiency for those prone to accumulating 'Dam-eum' (phlegm-fluid retention/metabolic waste). Ultimately, the core is not 'what is good' in general, but 'how does my body react.' If you feel more bloated or experience increased appetite after eating a particular snack, that product is not compatible with your constitution. Recommended snack types vary entirely depending on your digestive state and the degree of edema. The most efficient approach is to first identify your body's energy (Qi) and constitution, then choose snacks accordingly. If you are curious, we can check your current digestive status together during your next clinic visit.