Q. I’ve heard the Mediterranean diet is great for health and I’m thinking of trying it. From a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective, do you think it would be a good fit for me?

In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), the Mediterranean diet is viewed as an excellent way to clear 'Blood Stasis' (Eohyeol, 瘀血), which refers to stagnant or impure blood. Because it emphasizes fresh vegetables and fish, it helps prevent the accumulation of 'Phlegm-rheum' (Dameum, 痰飮)—metabolic waste—and promotes healthy metabolic circulation. Even as a practitioner, I once experienced bloating when I tried to force this diet without considering my own digestive state. While this diet is superb for clearing blood vessels and reducing chronic inflammation, it is not a 'one-size-fits-all' solution. Many Koreans suffer from 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛), characterized by a weak digestive system. For these individuals, consuming too many raw vegetables—which are considered 'cold' in nature—can further chill the stomach, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, or a depletion of Qi (vital energy). Rather than strictly following a foreign dietary trend, I recommend adapting its healthy principles to your body. For instance, if you have a weak stomach, try blanching or lightly cooking your vegetables instead of eating them raw. To find the most effective balance, it is best to visit a TKM clinic to have your constitution and gastrointestinal health evaluated by a professional.