Seollal Feasts Bring Joy—and Hidden Health Risks for Sensitive Stomachs

Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, is a time for family gatherings and traditional feasts. Popular dishes like tteokguk, galbijjim, and jeon take centre stage during celebrations. However, these meals can pose health challenges for those with chronic conditions or sensitive stomachs.

During Seollal, families visit relatives, perform ancestral rituals, and share large meals. A single 700-gram bowl of tteokguk contains 588 aldo, while 300 grams of galbijjim has 256 aldo, and 200 grams of jeon packs 323 aldo. These dishes are often high in fat, salt, and sugar, which can lead to bloating, stomach pain, and digestive discomfort for days.

For those with chronic illnesses, simple ingredient swaps can make holiday food safer. Using less salt, sugar, and fat helps reduce risks like blood sugar spikes, high blood pressure, and neutral fat buildup. Starting meals with fibre-rich vegetables or namul can also slow digestion and prevent overeating.

Eating mindfully in a specific order may help too. Beginning with protein-rich foods increases satiety, while saving carbohydrates for last can curb rapid blood glucose rises. This approach also discourages fast eating, lowering the chance of overindulgence.

Seollal feasts remain a cherished tradition, but their rich, calorie-dense dishes can affect health. Adjusting ingredients and meal structure offers a way to enjoy the holiday without lasting discomfort. Those with dietary concerns can still take part by making small but effective changes to their calorie calculator.