Q. I'm thinking of eating things like tofu gratin for my diet. What is the Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective on this kind of meal plan?

Many people make the mistake of strictly adhering to low-calorie diets, such as eating only raw salads, only to suffer from digestive distress. In TKM, we recommend a 'comfortable diet' tailored to your body rather than blindly following low-calorie trends. A significant number of patients suffer from 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), a deficiency in the Spleen/digestive function. For these individuals, consuming predominantly cool-natured foods like tofu can lead to the accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮), which refers to stagnant fluids or metabolic waste. When Dam-eum accumulates, circulation is hindered, which can paradoxically make weight loss more difficult. To enjoy tofu gratin while maintaining balance, consider the following tips: 1. Incorporate Warm-Natured Vegetables: Add ingredients like chives or onions to neutralize the cool properties of the tofu. 2. Monitor Your Digestion: If you experience bloating or gas after eating, reduce the portion size. For those with Bi-heo (Spleen deficiency), eating smaller amounts more frequently is the ideal approach. 3. Support Blood Circulation: A diet overly reliant on heavy cheeses or excessive proteins can thicken the blood, potentially leading to 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血), or blood stasis. We recommend a light walk after meals to promote circulation. Ultimately, weight loss is less about 'what you eat' and more about 'how your body processes it.' We advise assessing your digestive strength and constitution before finalizing your diet plan.