Q. How is dieting in your 40s different from general weight loss, and which approach is more effective?

In your 40s, weight gain is often caused by a change in the body's internal environment rather than a lack of willpower. You may find that the methods that worked before now lead to stagnation or increased swelling. From a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) perspective, the priority is clearing 'metabolic waste' from the body. We refer to this accumulation of waste as 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid retention). When waste products are not properly excreted and stagnate, the body feels heavy and sluggish. If this is combined with 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis)—where blood circulation is impaired and becomes turbid—metabolism slows down significantly, much like an engine clogged with sludge. Special caution is needed if you are in a state of 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency). When the function of the Spleen (which governs digestion and nutrient absorption) is weakened, aggressive fasting leads to muscle loss and chronic fatigue rather than fat loss. This often results in dizziness and constant false hunger. Therefore, for those in their 40s, the strategy should shift from 'eating less' to 'filling the deficient energy and flushing out stagnant waste.' This holistic approach allows for healthy weight management without the yo-yo effect. The first step is to accurately assess your current metabolic state and organ function.