Q. I need to diet for a month. What's the best way to do it?

When people think of a one-month diet, they usually imagine rapid weight loss, but Traditional Korean Medicine views this differently. Strategy varies entirely based on constitution and current pattern identification, so there's no single right answer. For example, in cases of spleen deficiency (脾虛), weak spleen function causes poor digestion and low energy metabolism. Fasting or severe calorie restriction can further weaken spleen qi, leading to fatigue and a tendency to gain weight easily later. Treatment involves tonifying the spleen (補脾) with herbs like Bojungikki-tang, warm easy-to-digest meals, regular eating times, and acupuncture at points like ST36 (Zusanli) and CV12 (Zhongwan). In contrast, phlegm-dampness (痰飮) involves accumulation of excess fluids and waste, with symptoms like edema, heaviness, and dizziness. Here, herbs that resolve phlegm and promote diuresis (利痰利濕) such as Iijin-tang are used, along with reducing salty and cold foods, light aerobic exercise, and acupuncture at points like SP9 (Yinlingquan) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao). In all cases, the goal is not drastic weight loss in one month but correcting imbalances to make future dieting easier. Combining herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments can reduce bloating and discomfort even in the short term, but individual results vary. Obsessing over numbers only adds stress. I now tell patients, 'If your body feels more comfortable, weight naturally follows.' If you're considering a one-month diet, it's wise to record your main symptoms (indigestion, edema, stress, etc.) beforehand and consult for a personalized plan.