Reviewed by최연승대표원장
I've been told my thyroid function isn't great. Is it still possible to do a herbal medicine diet in this case?
Yes, it is absolutely possible. However, the approach must be tailored to your specific thyroid condition. Depending on whether your metabolism is severely depressed or if you are in a hypersensitive state due to hyperthyroidism, the prescription must be fundamentally different to ensure healthy weight management.
This is a common concern for many patients. I understand that for those with thyroid issues, the standard advice of 'eat less and move more' is often insufficient. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), the thyroid acts similarly to a body's boiler; if this system malfunctions, conventional dieting often hits a plateau.
First, if your metabolism has slowed due to hypothyroidism, we view this as a state of 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛), where the body cannot efficiently utilize energy. In this state, excessively restricting your diet may cause the body to cling more tightly to energy stores. Therefore, our priority is to use prescriptions that stimulate metabolism and warm the body to restart the energy flow.
Conversely, if you have hyperthyroidism or related conditions where you feel anxious or experience heart palpitations, the approach is different. In such cases, we first focus on resolving 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) and 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮)—metabolic waste products that hinder circulation. Using stimulants to force metabolism in this state could place undue stress on your system.
Ultimately, a customized strategy based on the current 'state of your body's engine' is essential. By assessing your specific condition, I can help you safely flip the metabolic switch without overloading your system. It is much more effective to find a tailored solution together than to struggle alone.