Q. I've planned my meals using a calorie calculator; how does a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) clinic approach weight loss?

Many people experience fatigue or dizziness when adhering strictly to restrictive diets like chicken breast and sweet potatoes because they overlook the body's internal balance. In TKM, we don't view weight loss as a simple equation of 'calories in vs. calories out.' Instead, we follow a systematic physiological approach. First, we examine the circulation of Qi and Blood. If there is an accumulation of 'Eohyeol' (stagnant blood) or 'Dameum' (phlegm-fluid retention/metabolic waste), metabolic pathways become blocked. We prioritize clearing these obstructions to ensure energy flows smoothly. Second, we evaluate digestive capacity. If you are in a state of 'Bi-heo' (Spleen deficiency), your body may fail to absorb nutrients properly despite eating, leading the body to perceive a state of starvation and hoard fat more aggressively. By utilizing customized herbal medicine, we aim to raise your basal metabolic rate and core body temperature, transforming your constitution into one that burns energy more efficiently. Finally, we provide dietary guidelines tailored to your specific constitution and digestive health to create a sustainable environment that prevents the 'yo-yo' effect. The ultimate goal is to ensure your body is actually 'ready to lose weight' by unblocking metabolic pathways rather than simply restricting calories.