Q. I'm struggling with stubborn belly fat and can't seem to lose weight. How does the weight loss process work at a Traditional Korean Medicine clinic?

Having practiced as a TKM doctor for over 10 years, I once suffered from abdominal obesity myself due to long hours sitting in the consultation room. That experience taught me that starving is never the answer. At Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic, we follow a systematic process to address the root cause of weight gain. First, we identify your body constitution through InBody tests and detailed consultations. If fat is concentrated specifically in the abdomen, it often signals a blockage in the circulation of Qi and Blood (Gi-Hyeol). Second, we clear out internal waste. When metabolic byproducts accumulate, the metabolism slows down. In Traditional Korean Medicine, these are referred to as 'Dameum' (phlegm-rheum/metabolic waste) or 'Eohyeol' (blood stasis). Before focusing on actual weight reduction, we undergo a detoxification process to discharge these toxins. Third, we boost your metabolic energy. When digestive function is weak—a state known as 'Biheo' (Spleen Deficiency)—the body fails to utilize energy effectively and stores it as fat. We prescribe customized herbal medicine to strengthen the Spleen's transport and transformation functions, raising your basal metabolic rate to create a 'hard-to-gain' physiological foundation. Finally, we focus on habit stabilization. Relying solely on medication often leads to the yo-yo effect. We work with you to design a realistic diet that fits a busy lifestyle and provide a sufficient adjustment period until your body 'memorizes' its new, healthy state. Rather than just chasing numbers on a scale, think of this as restarting your body's engine. Let’s work together to find a fundamental solution instead of wasting effort on ineffective methods.