Diet Duration & Yo-yo Management
Q. How does a Korean medicine clinic's diet program work?
A.
First, a detailed consultation assesses your constitution and lifestyle. For example, poor digestion and frequent bloating often point to spleen deficiency (脾虛), while persistent weight gain with stress may involve blood stasis (瘀血) or phlegm fluid (痰飮). Herbal prescriptions are tailored accordingly, and treatments like acupuncture or moxibustion may be added. There is no one-size-fits-all approach; the focus is on your individual metabolic pattern.
📝 Detailed Answer
A Korean medicine diet is not simply about taking herbs to lose weight. The process begins with a thorough evaluation of your constitution, digestion, sleep, stress levels, and previous diet history. Notably, patients who have used Western medications like Wegovy or Saxenda and experienced rebound weight gain often present with a state of deficiency (虛). In such cases, restoring spleen function becomes a priority. Spleen deficiency (脾虛) means the digestive system fails to absorb nutrients properly, leading to slow metabolism. Conversely, those who consume oily or sugary foods and struggle to lose weight may have phlegm fluid (痰飮)—accumulation of waste fluids—or blood stasis (瘀血), indicating poor circulation. Treatment then uses herbs that promote elimination and circulation, combined with external therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion, or cupping to create a metabolic-friendly environment. Ultimately, the goal is to correct the underlying reason for weight gain. Progress varies individually, and lasting results require a combination with diet and exercise.
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Expert Verified
Dr. Yeonseung Choe
Chief Director
Last reviewed 2026.05.08