Q. I'm worried about the yo-yo effect after dieting. Is there a way to prevent it?

In more detail, the core of yo-yo dieting is a disrupted energy storage mechanism. Western medicine calls this compensatory weight gain, while Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) views it through the lens of spleen deficiency (biheo) and phlegm-fluid (dameum). The spleen is responsible for digesting food and transporting nutrients throughout the body. When dieting leads to severe fasting or unbalanced eating, spleen function weakens (spleen deficiency), causing improper digestion—dampness and phlegm accumulate. This phlegm-damp binds, making it hard to lose weight and even predisposing the body to gain more easily. Additionally, rapid weight loss can impair blood circulation, leading to blood stasis (eohyeol). To prevent yo-yo effects, we take two main approaches. First, for those on long-term dietary restriction, a 'recovery phase' is needed: instead of abruptly stopping the diet, gradually increase carbohydrates and protein while using spleen-tonifying herbal formulas (e.g., Bojungikgi-tang) to stabilize digestion and absorption. Second, for those whose weight plateaus despite exercise and diet, a 'metabolic shift' is necessary. This involves removing phlegm-fluid and promoting qi and blood circulation with formulas such as Erchen Tang (for phlegm) or Xuefu Zhuyu Tang (for blood stasis). Since individual constitution and condition vary, a precise diagnosis through an in-person consultation is recommended for optimal results.