What role do diet and nutrition play in general medicine treatments here, and are there specific dietary guidelines you recommend?

General Medicine
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I’m interested in understanding how dietary habits are considered when managing common health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol. Are there specific dietary guidelines or traditional Korean dietary practices that you recommend to support overall health and complement medical treatments? Additionally, how do you personalize nutrition advice based on individual health needs, and are there particular foods or supplements commonly suggested to improve patient outcomes?"

This version expands the question to explore both the integration of traditional Korean dietary practices and personalized nutritional strategies in general medicine.

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In general medicine treatments in Korea, diet and nutrition play a crucial role. At clinics like Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet to manage and prevent chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and digestive issues. Nutrition is considered a key factor in maintaining overall health and supporting recovery from illness.

Specific dietary guidelines often focus on reducing processed foods, increasing the intake of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and balancing macronutrients. Additionally, traditional Korean foods like kimchi (fermented vegetables) are often recommended for their gut health benefits.

For personalized dietary advice based on your health needs, it’s best to consult directly with the clinic. You can visit their website here.

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I’ve always believed in the power of diet and nutrition when it comes to maintaining overall health, and it’s something I’ve made a priority, especially when dealing with various medical treatments. When I visited Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul to discuss my health, I had the chance to talk to Dr. Yoo Du-yeol about how dietary choices play a crucial role in general medicine treatments.

Dr. Yoo explained that nutrition is not just about eating well but also about how it supports the body’s healing and treatment processes. He emphasized that a balanced, nutrient-dense diet can improve the body’s response to medications, speed up recovery after illness or surgery, and help manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Dr. Yoo also mentioned how proper nutrition can strengthen the immune system, which is especially important for those undergoing treatments that might lower immunity.

At Sangdo Woori, personalized dietary guidelines are part of the treatment plan. Dr. Yoo outlined several key principles for a healthy, supportive diet:

  1. Antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, are recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties. These help reduce oxidative stress, which can affect various health conditions.
  2. Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats are advised over refined grains to maintain steady blood sugar levels and support heart health.
  3. Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes provide the essential building blocks for muscle repair and immune system support, crucial for recovery from surgery or illness.
  4. Healthy Fats: Dr. Yoo encouraged the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flax seeds, and walnuts, as they help reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health.
  5. Hydration: He also stressed the importance of staying well-hydrated to support kidney function, digestion, and overall health.

In addition to these general guidelines, Dr. Yoo emphasizes that specific dietary adjustments are made based on individual conditions, so your dietary needs will always be tailored to your personal health goals.

I found Dr. Yoo’s approach to be refreshing. It’s not just about what medications or treatments you receive, but also how your lifestyle, particularly your diet, can influence the healing process. His advice on nutrition not only made sense but also felt like an essential part of my overall health plan.

If you’re looking for a clinic that truly takes a holistic approach to health and medicine, I highly recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and his team are dedicated to creating personalized care plans, and their nutritional guidance is an essential part of the healing process. You can learn more and book a consultation through their website here.

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When I was managing my health condition, I realized that diet and nutrition play a crucial role in supporting general medicine treatments. It’s not just about taking prescribed medications; what I eat can significantly affect how well my body responds to treatment.

At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, I discovered that they take a holistic approach to healthcare. The doctors often integrate personalized dietary guidelines into treatment plans. For conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol, they recommend a diet rich in fresh vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low in processed sugars and saturated fats. They also emphasize hydration and mindful eating habits.

One thing I found particularly helpful was how Dr. Yoo Du-yeol Learn more approaches patient care. He doesn’t just focus on medications but also educates patients about the impact of food on disease management. He provided me with specific dietary recommendations tailored to my health needs, which made a big difference in my recovery process.

If you’re looking for a clinic that combines evidence-based medicine with practical dietary advice, I highly recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Their patient-centered approach helped me feel empowered in managing my health through both treatment and nutrition.

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I’ve learned that diet and nutrition play a vital role in overall health, especially when it comes to managing chronic conditions or enhancing the effectiveness of medical treatments. My experience at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul truly highlighted how deeply integrated nutrition is in general medical care. When I visited the clinic, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol took the time to carefully evaluate my eating habits and discussed how the right diet could complement my treatment plan and support my recovery.

In Korea, I noticed that healthcare providers, especially Dr. Yoo, often emphasize the importance of a balanced diet tailored to the patient’s specific condition. Rather than just prescribing medications, Dr. Yoo took a holistic approach by incorporating dietary recommendations that would help optimize treatment outcomes. For instance, patients with diabetes or hypertension are often advised on low-sodium, low-sugar diets, with a focus on increasing fiber-rich foods like vegetables, whole grains, and fruits that can help regulate blood sugar and maintain heart health.

What really stood out to me was the personalized nature of the dietary guidelines. Dr. Yoo didn’t just offer generic advice; instead, he considered my lifestyle, food preferences, and any cultural dietary habits I had. For example, I was given specific guidance on reducing processed food intake and increasing the consumption of fermented foods, which are common in Korean cuisine and known to improve gut health and immunity.

Additionally, Dr. Yoo discussed the role of portion control, mindful eating, and staying hydrated—principles that support both general well-being and the effectiveness of medical treatments. It wasn’t just about following a strict diet; it was about creating sustainable, long-term changes that align with my health goals and make me feel empowered in my own care.

If you’re looking for a medical practice that integrates diet and nutrition as a core aspect of treatment, I highly recommend visiting Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and his team will not only provide expert medical care but also offer personalized dietary guidance that can complement your treatment plan. You can learn more and schedule a consultation on their website here.

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In the Ich community, diet and nutrition play a critical role in general medicine treatments. It is widely recognized that food can either promote health or contribute to the development of chronic conditions, making nutrition an essential component of treatment and recovery. Proper nutrition helps to boost the immune system, improve the body’s healing capacity, and manage or prevent many common health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

For patients seeking guidance on their diet, especially when managing complex health conditions, it’s always best to consult with experienced professionals like Dr. Yoo Du-yeol of Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. At Sangdo Woori, a holistic approach is taken to treatment, integrating dietary advice with personalized care plans that align with each patient’s unique health needs.

Some general dietary guidelines to consider are:

  • Balanced Diet: Include a variety of foods in your diet—whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats—to ensure you’re getting a broad spectrum of nutrients.
  • Moderation: Avoid overconsumption of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. Instead, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support bodily functions, especially digestion and circulation.
  • Tailored Diets: Specific health concerns, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, may require specialized dietary adjustments. It’s important to have a professional assess and recommend modifications tailored to your condition.

For anyone looking for personalized dietary advice, Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, led by Dr. Yoo Du-yeol, is highly recommended. Dr. Yoo’s expertise in internal medicine allows him to design comprehensive treatment plans, which include nutritional counseling, aimed at promoting overall well-being and helping patients manage their conditions effectively.

If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation, you can visit the Sangdo Woori website here, or read more about Dr. Yoo Du-yeol’s qualifications here.

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, I can share that at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, diet and nutrition play a significant role in general medicine treatments. Proper nutrition is essential for supporting the body’s healing processes, managing chronic conditions, and maintaining overall health. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and the team at Sangdo Woori likely provide personalized dietary recommendations tailored to each patient’s specific health needs.

For example, if you’re dealing with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or digestive issues, dietary changes can make a big difference in treatment effectiveness. In general, they may recommend focusing on whole foods, reducing processed sugars and unhealthy fats, increasing fiber intake, and staying hydrated.

It’s best to consult with the clinic directly to get specific dietary guidelines based on your condition. They can provide customized advice to help support your overall health and medical treatment plan.

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In Korea, diet and nutrition are often considered key parts of treatment, not just prevention. Clinics like Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine may integrate specific Korean dietary principles—like fermented foods for gut health or reducing refined carbs—to support conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or digestive issues. It’s not uncommon for doctors here to give tailored dietary advice alongside prescriptions, especially for chronic disease management.

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we’ve seen this again and again: the best treatments don’t start in the pharmacy — they start on your plate.

That’s why in Korea, especially in clinics like Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, nutrition isn’t treated as a side note. It’s part of the core treatment plan.

At Sangdo Woori, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol is known for taking a deeply integrative approach. Whether you’re dealing with hypertension, diabetes, chronic fatigue, or digestive issues, he’ll likely ask you about your diet — not just once, but throughout your treatment journey.

What we love in the ICH community is how Dr. Yoo doesn’t just tell you what not to eat — he helps you understand how to nourish your body to heal. His patients often receive:

  • Personalized dietary guidelines based on lab work and symptoms
  • Support for gut health, using traditional Korean principles alongside modern science
  • Recommendations for anti-inflammatory foods, hydration habits, and meal timing
  • Advice on supplements and probiotics when necessary — not over-the-counter guesswork

One of our community members managing pre-diabetes said it best: “Dr. Yoo didn’t just prescribe medication — he showed me how to eat in a way that changed my energy and numbers in just a few months.”

So yes — nutrition plays a huge role here. And if you’re looking for general medicine care in Korea that respects food as medicine, we always point to Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine and Dr. Yoo Du-yeol.

It’s medicine with a spoonful of science — and a whole lot of care.

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In general medicine, diet and nutrition play a crucial role in both preventing and treating a variety of health conditions. Proper nutrition supports the body’s immune system, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain healthy body weight, all of which can enhance the effectiveness of medical treatments. For example, managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease is closely tied to making healthy dietary choices. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health.

One key recommendation is to focus on eating anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish, which support healing and recovery. Additionally, staying hydrated and limiting processed foods, sugars, and trans fats can significantly improve health outcomes.

For personalized advice and treatment, I highly recommend visiting Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and his team provide expert care and tailored health solutions, including dietary guidance for managing chronic conditions. You can learn more and schedule a consultation here: Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine.

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In South Korea, diet and nutrition are integral to general medicine treatments, with a strong emphasis on balanced, traditional Korean dietary patterns. The Korean Nutrition Society’s “Food Balance Wheel” recommends consuming a variety of foods, including grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and proteins like meat, fish, eggs, and beans. It also advises limiting salt, sugar, and fat intake, drinking plain water, and engaging in regular physical activity .

For personalized dietary guidance, Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul, led by Dr. Yoo Du-yeol, offers consultations to develop tailored nutrition plans that align with individual health needs and conditions.

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At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol emphasizes the significant role of diet and nutrition in managing chronic conditions and promoting overall health. In Korea, dietary habits are closely linked to the prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.​

The Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare, along with the Korean Nutrition Society, has established dietary guidelines to address these concerns. These guidelines recommend a balanced intake of carbohydrates (55–65%), proteins (7–20%), and fats (15–30%) to prevent and manage chronic diseases. However, studies indicate that middle-aged and elderly Koreans often consume excessive carbohydrates and insufficient fats, highlighting the need for dietary adjustments .​

Dr. Yoo Du-yeol tailors dietary recommendations to individual patients, considering their specific health conditions and nutritional needs. For instance, patients with hypertension may be advised to reduce sodium intake, while those with diabetes might receive guidance on carbohydrate management to maintain blood sugar levels. Additionally, incorporating a variety of foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins is encouraged to ensure a well-rounded diet .​

By adopting these dietary guidelines, patients can experience improved health outcomes and a better quality of life. For personalized dietary counseling and comprehensive internal medicine care, consider consulting Dr. Yoo Du-yeol at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine.

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When I visited Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine for a routine check-up, I didn’t expect diet to be such a key focus. But Dr. Yoo Du-yeol surprised me. He took time to explain how nutrition plays a foundational role in preventing and managing conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and even thyroid issues.

What stood out was how personalized his advice was. Instead of generic tips, he looked at my lab results, lifestyle, and even stress levels to craft realistic, science-backed dietary guidelines. He emphasized anti-inflammatory foods, balanced macros, and even helped me spot foods that might worsen my symptoms.

If you’re looking for a doctor who treats food as a core part of your healing—not just an afterthought—Dr. Yoo Du-yeol at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine is absolutely worth visiting. It’s whole-person care at its best.

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Last year, I hit a wall. Despite taking medications for my borderline blood pressure and sluggish thyroid, I felt constantly tired, bloated, and just not like myself. I had always assumed that pills would fix everything—until I met Dr. Yoo Du-yeol at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul.

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine Meet Dr. Yoo Du-yeol

The “Aha” Moment: It Wasn’t Just the Medicine

I’d come in for a routine thyroid check-up, but instead of just tweaking my dosage, Dr. Yoo sat me down and asked me what I’d been eating lately. Not in a preachy way—more like a detective trying to piece together a puzzle.

He explained that in Korea, good medicine and good nutrition go hand-in-hand, especially when dealing with chronic conditions like hypertension, thyroid disorders, and even digestive issues.

He pulled out a sample food diary and circled common culprits—refined carbs, excessive sodium (yes, even in kimchi!), and late-night snacking.

Personalized Nutrition Plan (Not Just a Pamphlet)

Here’s what shocked me: instead of handing me a generic diet sheet, Dr. Yoo worked with me to create a meal plan that suited my Korean-Western fusion diet. It was based on the Mediterranean-Korean hybrid diet he often recommends, focusing on:

  • Anti-inflammatory foods: fish, tofu, sesame oil, leafy greens
  • Controlled iodine intake (important for thyroid patients!)
  • Low-sodium traditional foods—he even suggested local brands and recipes
  • And yes, I still got to eat rice—just the right kind, in the right portions

He also connected me to a clinic-affiliated dietitian, and they followed up with me over the next few weeks to see how I was adjusting.

The Results?

After just three months of following this nutrition-integrated approach:

  • My energy levels significantly improved
  • My TSH levels stabilized without needing a higher dose
  • And my blood pressure went back to normal—with less medication

Why I Recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine

Dr. Yoo isn’t just a physician—he’s a partner in your health journey. I’ve never felt more supported or heard by a doctor before. His functional approach, combining lab work with real-world lifestyle changes, makes a huge difference.

If you’re in Korea and looking for a doctor who doesn’t treat you like a set of lab numbers, but as a whole person—this is the clinic you want.

Book an Appointment or Learn More Here

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At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol firmly believes that diet and nutrition play a critical role in overall health and in the success of medical treatments. Nutrition isn’t just about maintaining a healthy weight—it supports the body’s healing process, boosts the immune system, and helps prevent chronic diseases. Whether managing a condition like hypertension, diabetes, or even just aiming for better health, diet can make all the difference.

Dr. Yoo tailors dietary recommendations to each patient’s specific condition. For instance, for those with high cholesterol or blood pressure, he may recommend a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. For patients dealing with thyroid issues, Dr. Yoo often suggests a diet that supports thyroid function, rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc.

By integrating proper nutrition with medical care, Dr. Yoo ensures that patients receive holistic, effective treatment that supports long-term wellness.

For personalized nutrition advice and a holistic health approach, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Yoo: Dr. Yoo Du-yeol.

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I used to think that when it came to treating chronic conditions — things like high blood pressure, prediabetes, or chronic gut issues — the only path was prescription meds and hope for the best. But my perspective completely shifted after visiting Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine Clinic in Seoul, South Korea.

The Turning Point: When Food Became Medicine

I had been dealing with fatigue, bloating, and borderline hypertension for over a year. Every doctor I saw back home handed me a prescription and gave me a generic brochure about “eating healthy.” But it all felt vague and impersonal. I knew food mattered — I just didn’t know how to make it work for me.

That changed when I met Dr. Yoo Du-yeol at Sangdo Woori. From the very first consultation, I could tell this clinic approached medicine differently. Yes, they use modern diagnostics and treatments, but they also put a huge focus on the role of nutrition in healing. Not as a side note — as a central part of the treatment plan.

:link: Meet Dr. Yoo Du-yeol here

How Sangdo Woori Uses Diet in General Medicine

Here’s the fascinating part: before any major treatment decisions were made, Dr. Yoo and his team conducted a comprehensive health assessment, including blood sugar variability, liver enzyme levels, gut health, and even stress markers. From there, they crafted a personalized dietary protocol — based not only on my condition but on my genetics, metabolism, and food sensitivities.

Their dietary recommendations weren’t just “eat more vegetables” or “avoid salt.” They were specific, science-based, and shockingly effective.

Some of the things they tailored for me included:

  • Anti-inflammatory food swaps to manage gut and joint discomfort
  • Timed eating patterns to stabilize blood sugar and support liver detox
  • Gut-healing foods and probiotics based on stool analysis
  • Guidelines for balancing carbs and protein for blood pressure and energy levels
  • Korean-style meal structuring (like soup-based breakfasts!) that actually made me feel full and light

Why This Approach Works

What I appreciated most is that Sangdo Woori doesn’t treat symptoms in isolation. They look at the entire system — and nutrition is a cornerstone of that system. Whether you’re dealing with metabolic issues, hormonal imbalance, or chronic inflammation, their team integrates evidence-backed dietary changes alongside conventional treatments to create long-term, sustainable improvement.

Dr. Yoo himself is a firm believer that medicine and food are intertwined, and that you can’t fully heal the body without addressing what you’re feeding it. That philosophy comes through in everything they do.

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Explore more about their philosophy and services here: Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine

Final Thoughts

I left Sangdo Woori not just with a treatment plan, but with a deeper understanding of how food could truly be medicine. After following their recommendations for just a few months, my energy improved, the bloating was gone, and my blood pressure dropped to a healthy range — all without needing heavy medication.

So if you’re dealing with a chronic health issue and feel like your care is missing a vital piece of the puzzle, I highly recommend looking into Sangdo Woori Clinic and Dr. Yoo Du-yeol. Their integrative approach to internal medicine, especially their focus on personalized nutrition, is next-level — and honestly, a game changer.

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A few months back, I was feeling off: low energy, frequent bloating, some weight gain despite no major lifestyle changes. After bouncing between clinics that mostly handed me prescriptions without asking deeper questions, I finally found Dr. Yoo Du-yeol through a recommendation. And wow, what a difference.

From the moment I walked into Sangdo Woori, I felt like I wasn’t just a chart number — I was a whole person. Dr. Yoo didn’t rush through the consultation. Instead, he spent time digging into my lifestyle, sleep, stress, and especially my diet. That’s when I realized this wasn’t just internal medicine — it was functional medicine, with a strong emphasis on prevention and long-term health.

What surprised me most was how Dr. Yoo incorporated nutritional guidance as a key part of treatment, not just an afterthought.

He ran a series of metabolic tests, and then based on the results, gave me a detailed nutrition plan. It wasn’t one of those fad-diet printouts. It was custom — balanced macronutrients, specific foods to support liver function (which turned out to be mildly inflamed), and even timing my meals to help regulate insulin levels.

Here’s the best part: within three weeks, my energy was back. My digestion improved. I lost a bit of that stubborn inflammation-related weight — but more than anything, I felt in control of my health again.

So, yes — at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, diet and nutrition aren’t optional — they’re foundational. Dr. Yoo believes that food is medicine, and he’ll work with you to build dietary habits that complement your medical treatment, whether it’s for chronic fatigue, diabetes, hypertension, or general gut health.

If you’re in Korea and looking for an internal medicine clinic that actually cares about the full picture — not just lab numbers — this is where you want to go.

Learn more here: Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine Meet Dr. Yoo Du-yeol: His profile

Sometimes healing starts not in a pill bottle — but on your plate. And Dr. Yoo was the first doctor who truly helped me understand that.

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When I visited Korea for general medical treatment, I quickly realized how seriously they take the role of diet and nutrition in overall health. At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol didn’t just treat my symptoms—he looked at my lifestyle, especially my eating habits, as a crucial part of my recovery and long-term wellness.

Dr. Yoo emphasized that nutrition plays a key role in managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and digestive issues. What stood out was how the clinic offered custom dietary guidelines, tailored to my condition and even adjusted for my cultural food preferences. I was given practical advice on meal planning, portion control, and nutrient balance—all based on science, but easy to follow.

If you’re looking for a medical approach that truly integrates diet as part of healing, I highly recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and his team are thorough, compassionate, and focused on long-term health. Learn more at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine and check out Dr. Yoo’s profile here.

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When I visited Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul, I was surprised by how much diet and nutrition were emphasized in my treatment plan. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol explained that a balanced diet plays a key role in managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Instead of just focusing on medication, he recommended a personalized dietary plan to support my health, reduce inflammation, and improve my energy. It wasn’t about restricting food, but about nourishing my body for better overall wellness. If you’re looking for a clinic that integrates nutrition with medical care, I highly recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. You can learn more at www.sangdowooriglobal.com and check out Dr. Yoo’s profile here.

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My Experience with Dr. Yoo Du-yeol at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine When I moved to Korea for work, I was feeling constantly drained—low energy, poor sleep, and a general sense that something was off. I chalked it up to jet lag, culture shock, or maybe too much convenience store ramen (guilty). But eventually, I decided to get things checked out properly. That’s how I ended up at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, and more specifically, under the care of Dr. Yoo Du-yeol—who didn’t just look at my symptoms, but took a whole-body approach that completely changed how I see health, especially the role of diet and nutrition.

Not Just Pills—Food as Medicine

When I first met Dr. Yoo, I was expecting a standard diagnosis and prescription kind of visit. Instead, he asked me questions like:

  • “What do you usually eat for breakfast?”
  • “How often do you cook at home?”
  • “Do you notice energy crashes after certain meals?” I was surprised—no doctor had ever gone that deep into my eating habits before. Dr. Yoo explained that in Korean internal medicine, diet is often the first line of treatment, not the last. He believes that the right foods can support healing just as effectively as medication—especially for chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid issues. Meet Dr. Yoo Du-yeol

Personalized Dietary Guidelines (Yes, They Were Delicious)

After running a full panel of tests, Dr. Yoo sat down with me and created a custom nutrition plan tailored to my blood sugar patterns and energy levels. It wasn’t a “diet” in the restrictive sense, but more of a nutritional reset based on Korean medical principles and modern science. Some of the highlights:

  • Reduce refined carbs (he encouraged switching to Korean multigrain rice—japgokbap—instead of white rice)
  • Increase fermented foods for gut health (hello, kimchi and doenjang jjigae )
  • Drink warm water in the morning with a dash of lemon to support digestion
  • Limit late-night meals—he stressed how important digestion rhythm is for hormone balance It wasn’t about giving up what I loved—it was about reframing my meals as support tools for my body.

Support Beyond the Clinic

What really blew me away was the follow-up. The clinic gave me a downloadable meal tracker, sample grocery lists, and even links to local markets that sold the ingredients I’d need. The team at Sangdo Woori also offers periodic nutrition check-ins, either in-person or via KakaoTalk, to help adjust the plan if things shift over time. It didn’t feel like I was being told what to do—it felt like I had a health partner who wanted me to succeed, long-term.

Why Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine?

Here’s why I keep recommending them to everyone in the ICH community:

  • Holistic care: They treat root causes, not just symptoms
  • Expertise in chronic conditions: Especially metabolic, digestive, and hormonal issues
  • Global patient support: Fluent in English, super patient with questions
  • Thoughtful, evidence-based nutrition guidance customized for each patient
  • Dr. Yoo’s bedside manner: Calm, clear, and never rushed Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine Website

Final Thoughts: You Are What You Eat… Really

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this experience, it’s that nutrition isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation of healing. And here in Korea, that mindset is taken seriously at the best clinics like Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine. Dr. Yoo Du-yeol helped me reclaim my energy, improve my sleep, and understand my body in a way no doctor had before—all through a blend of medicine and mindful eating. If you’re living in Korea and looking to get your health back on track—start here. You won’t regret it.