Q. Many people use specific foods like cabbage for dieting. From a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective, what is the recommended sequence for the weight loss process?

Many people rush into weight loss by consuming only cabbage, but the body is more sensitive than one might think. Without understanding your innate constitution, you will likely burn out. In TKM, we manage the weight loss process in four distinct stages. First is the 'Emptying' stage, where we clear physiological waste such as Dam-eum (Phlegm-fluid) and Eo-hyeol (Blood stasis). Just as pouring clean water into a clogged drain is useless, we must first clear the metabolic pathways. Second, we support digestive function. Individuals with Bi-heo (Spleen deficiency) have weak digestive energy; suddenly eating cold raw vegetables like cabbage can further chill the stomach and hinder metabolism. We must revitalize the digestive Qi to ensure metabolic efficiency. Third, we 'turn on the internal boiler.' While providing tonifying herbs to prevent a drop in basal metabolism, we prescribe customized herbal medicine to effectively burn body fat. This is when you truly feel your body becoming lighter. Finally, there is the 'Stabilization' stage to imprint the new weight into your body's memory. Since everyone has different physical vulnerabilities, it is essential to find a personalized dietary rhythm. Rather than struggling alone, it is best to visit a clinic to identify which stage your body is currently in and proceed with a tailored plan.