Q. I’ve tried lipolysis injections and conventional weight loss medications, but I keep experiencing the yo-yo effect. How does Traditional Korean Medicine approach weight loss in stages?

Excessive fasting can cause the body to enter 'emergency mode,' where it clings to energy stores. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we address this through the concepts of Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo) and Phlegm-fluid (Dam-eum). First, we focus on detoxification. We must discharge 'Dam-eum'—waste products formed from stagnant body fluids. Much like a clogged drain, these residues must be cleared before any further treatment can be effective. Next, we restore metabolic efficiency. Many patients suffer from stagnant 'Qi and Blood' circulation due to repeated harsh dieting. Through herbal medicine, we reignite the body’s 'engine' to increase the basal metabolic rate, encouraging a constitution that utilizes energy even at rest. Third, we tonify the Spleen (Bi-heo). When Spleen function is weak, one tends to swell and gain weight easily even with small meals. By strengthening the digestive system, we ensure nutrients are absorbed while waste is promptly excreted. Finally, we focus on establishing sustainable lifestyle habits, including personalized diet and sleep patterns. The journey begins with accurately understanding your body’s unique state.