Q. Doctor, I'm craving chicken so much while dieting. Which kind would you recommend?

To be honest, even I struggle to resist chicken sometimes; being a TKM practitioner doesn't mean I live on salads alone. If you're craving chicken during your diet, the answer is simple: choose 'non-fried' options. Roasted chicken offers several advantages. By reducing flour intake, it helps prevent the formation of Dam-eum (痰飮), a state where metabolic waste and fluid accumulate in the body. Since the excess fat is drained away, it is also much easier on the digestive system. There are a few things to keep in mind, though. While oven-roasted chicken is a great choice, excessive sauces can lead to high sugar intake. Also, if you insist on eating only dry breast meat, you might get tired of it and end up impulsively ordering cheese balls—which is exactly what happened to me. From a TKM perspective, those with a 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛, Bi-heo)—a condition where the digestive function is weakened—often feel heavy or dizzy after eating fried foods. For these individuals, roasted chicken is a much more comfortable and healthier option. Ultimately, your digestive state and personal taste are what matter most. Rather than stressing yourself out by suppressing your cravings, I recommend choosing a cooking method that your body can easily process. When you visit the clinic, I can provide a more detailed dietary guide tailored to your current energy levels and constitution.