Q. I have a lot of work dinners while taking weight loss herbal medicine; is it okay to drink alcohol?

Many of my patients struggle with the social pressures of professional dinners while trying to lose weight. Based on clinical experience, a strategic approach is essential. From a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, avoiding alcohol helps prevent the accumulation of 'Dameum' (痰飮)—phlegm-fluid or metabolic waste—which makes the body feel significantly lighter. It also ensures that the active components of the herbal medicine are fully metabolized, maximizing their efficacy and providing psychological stability to prevent binge eating the following day. Conversely, since the liver prioritizes the processing of alcohol, the absorption rate of the herbal medicine may decrease. Furthermore, high-calorie side dishes consumed with alcohol can place a heavy burden on the digestive system, especially in those with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛)—a deficiency in the Spleen/digestive function—often leading to severe edema (swelling) the next morning. Rather than a strict 'no,' I suggest a realistic 'adjustment strategy.' At dinners, prioritize vegetables and proteins first to feel full, and sip your drinks slowly. The day after drinking, drink plenty of warm water to help discharge 'Eohyeol' (瘀血)—stagnant blood and waste products—from the body. Since reactions to alcohol vary depending on an individual's constitution (Sasang typology) and current physical condition, I recommend visiting the clinic so we can tailor a specific management plan for your dinner frequency and dietary habits.