Q. I want to lose weight after giving birth; when and how should I start dieting?
It is important to begin once your body has sufficiently recovered, tailoring the approach to your individual constitution and health status. We recommend managing weight by replenishing your vitality rather than through excessive calorie restriction.
📝 Detailed Answer
We truly understand the frustration you may feel when looking in the mirror after childbirth. However, starting a diet too hastily may place undue strain on your body.
In Traditional Korean Medicine, the depleted state of the body after childbirth is viewed as Qi and Blood Deficiency (氣血兩虛). Since both energy and blood are deficient, indiscriminate fasting or the use of potent medications may delay your recovery.
Therefore, we recommend the following staged approach:
- Vitality Recovery Stage: Preventing postpartum wind (Sanhu-pung) and replenishing deficient blood to increase the body's basal metabolic rate.
- Waste Elimination Stage: Resolving Blood Stasis (瘀血)—stagnant blood—and edema to improve overall circulation.
- Weight Management Stage: Once the body has stabilized, using herbal medicine tailored to your constitution to regulate appetite and activate metabolism.
However, since recovery speed and constitution vary by individual, there are significant individual differences. To determine the safest timing and method suited to your current condition, we recommend a consultation with a professional practitioner.
Expert Verified
Dr. Yeonseung Choe
Chief Director