Nutrition

The Mediterranean diet is one of the most evidence-backed eating patterns in the world — and most of its staple ingredients are widely available in Korea's supermarkets.

Korea has one of the world's richest fermented food traditions — kimchi, doenjang, gochujang, and jang sauces — with genuine, evidence-backed benefits for gut health alongside some considerations to manage.

With hot, humid summers and periods of intense heat, dehydration is a real health risk in Korea — especially for outdoor workers, children, and the elderly.

Despite Korea's four-season climate, vitamin D deficiency affects a majority of residents — due to indoor lifestyles, sun avoidance for cosmetic reasons, and long winters.

Iron deficiency is the world's most common nutritional deficiency and a leading cause of anaemia in Korea, particularly affecting women of childbearing age and young children.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats your body cannot produce — they protect the heart, reduce inflammation, and support brain development, and Korea's local fish are among the richest natural sources.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body — 99% is stored in bones and teeth. Getting enough throughout life is essential for preventing osteoporosis, especially in Korea where vitamin D deficiency is widespread.

Good nutrition during pregnancy supports your baby's development and your own health. Here is what to eat, what to avoid, and which supplements are recommended for pregnant women in Korea.

Childhood is the most important window for establishing lifelong healthy eating habits. Korea's rising childhood obesity rates make good nutrition guidance more important than ever.

Intermittent fasting cycles between periods of eating and fasting to improve metabolic health and aid weight management — but it is not suitable for everyone.

Sugar consumption in Korea has risen with the growth of convenience foods and sweetened drinks — a key contributor to rising obesity and type 2 diabetes rates. Most sugar in the Korean diet is hidden in drinks, sauces, and processed foods.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) affects a large share of adults in Korea — and high salt intake is a primary modifiable risk factor. Korea's traditional cuisine, while healthy in many respects, is genuinely high in sodium.