Q. Doctor, many people eat Subway sandwiches for lunch to diet these days. From a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective, which menu items would be healthy? Please give me some recommendations!

Even as a TKM doctor, I often grab Subway when I'm busy between consultations. It can be a bit overwhelming trying to pick your toppings while the person behind you is waiting! However, from a medical perspective, Subway is an excellent dietary choice. First, the abundance of dietary fiber is perfect for clearing out 'Phlegm-fluid' (Dam-eum), which is the sticky metabolic waste that accumulates in the body. It also allows you to adjust the ratio of carbohydrates and proteins to suit your daily physical condition. However, there are precautions to take. Raw vegetables are inherently 'cold' in nature. For those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo)—meaning those with weak digestive fire—eating raw vegetables every day might cause abdominal noise, bloating, or lethargy. Furthermore, heavy or pungent sauces can obstruct the circulation of Qi and Blood, leading to edema (swelling). Therefore, I recommend lightly seasoned options like roast chicken or roast beef. Ask to hollow out the bread to reduce refined carbs and stick to olive oil, salt, and pepper for the sauce. In my experience, this approach keeps the stomach comfortable all afternoon. Finally, always remember to warm your digestive system with a cup of hot tea after your meal!