Q. I've started gaining weight suddenly after my 40s. How should dieting for middle-aged adults differ from younger people?

Many people find that the weight loss methods they used in their 20s—such as fasting or intense cardio—no longer work and can even lead to chronic fatigue in middle age. The core of weight loss for middle-aged adults is not 'emptying' the body, but rather 'optimizing the flow' of internal systems. Here is a detailed step-by-step approach based on Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM): 1. Identifying the Cause of Metabolic Decline: We first examine if you have Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛). When the Spleen's function weakens, the body's ability to absorb and transport nutrients drops, causing unused energy to be stored as fat instead of being burned. 2. Removing Metabolic Waste: We focus on clearing Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) and Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-eum, 痰飮). These are abnormal accumulations of fluids and stagnant blood that block blood vessels and lymph nodes; if these 'residues' remain, weight loss is difficult regardless of how little you eat. 3. Replenishing Vitality and Appetite Control: Severe fasting leads to muscle loss, which further damages the metabolism. We use herbal medicine to boost your vital energy (Qi) while naturally controlling 'false hunger' to prevent overeating. 4. Aligning Life Rhythms: Instead of overexerting yourself with strenuous exercise, you should set an activity level that your body can realistically sustain to facilitate healthy circulation. Ultimately, dieting after 40 is not about reducing a number on the scale, but about flipping the 'metabolic switch' back on. A personalized strategy tailored to your current physical state is essential for sustainable health.