Q. I have severe abdominal obesity; can I lose belly fat through Traditional Korean Medicine?
Yes, it is possible. Rather than simple starvation, TKM focuses on restoring metabolic functions and promoting the discharge of accumulated waste products from the body.
📝 Detailed Answer
It can be very frustrating when belly fat feels stubborn and won't go away despite your efforts. I understand that feeling of wondering why it is so difficult to lose weight in that specific area.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), abdominal obesity is not viewed simply as an accumulation of fat, but as a result of Dam-jeok (phlegm-fluid accumulation) and Eo-hyeol (blood stasis). Dam-jeok refers to a state where metabolic waste accumulates and hardens, while Eo-hyeol refers to stagnation in blood circulation.
Specifically, when a person is in a state of Bi-heo (Spleen Deficiency), meaning the Spleen function is weakened, the body fails to absorb nutrients properly while allowing waste to accumulate, leading to an increased abdominal circumference. Therefore, the key is not indiscriminate fasting, but rather clearing the internal circulation.
- Promoting Qi and Blood Circulation: By resolving blood stasis and improving circulation, we increase the overall metabolic rate.
- Improving Digestive Function: By addressing Spleen Deficiency, we remove unnecessary edema and Dam-jeok.
- Appetite Regulation: We help soothe sudden hunger, allowing for a natural and sustainable reduction in food intake.
💡 Treatment Goal
The goal is not mere weight loss, but resolving the metabolic stagnation that causes visceral fat, creating a balanced body state to prevent the yo-yo effect.
Expert Verified
Dr. Yeonseung Choe
Chief Director
