Q. I'm worried about my growing belly fat—it seems like it's just 'middle-age spread.' How does a Korean medicine clinic approach the stages of abdominal obesity treatment?

Many patients assume doctors don't struggle with weight, but abdominal fat is a common concern for everyone if management is neglected. In TKM, treating abdominal obesity is about clearing 'stagnant zones' rather than just shedding fat. First, we must clear internal waste like Phlegm-retained Fluid (Dameum) and Blood Stasis (Eohyeol). Without clearing these paths, weight loss becomes difficult regardless of food intake. Next, we address Spleen Deficiency (Biheo). When the Spleen—the center of digestion and energy transformation—is weak, the body stores energy as fat instead of burning it, leading to the common complaint that even 'drinking water causes weight gain.' We must jumpstart this metabolic engine. Furthermore, a cold abdomen triggers the body to accumulate fat as a protective layer for the internal organs. We use acupuncture and pharmacopuncture to improve Qi and Blood circulation and warm the core, creating an environment where fat can be metabolized naturally. Instead of extreme fasting, the key is finding a diet that fits your specific constitution to prevent the yo-yo effect. By addressing the root cause of why fat concentrates in your abdomen, we help you achieve a lighter, healthier body.