Q. How does Traditional Korean Medicine prevent the yo-yo effect after dieting?

The yo-yo effect after dieting isn't simply about lacking willpower—it's because your body constitution hasn't fundamentally changed. In TKM, this is understood as spleen deficiency (脾虛) state. When spleen function weakens, it poorly absorbs nutrients, so any slight increase in food intake immediately converts to weight. I experienced this myself: losing weight too quickly left me feeling depleted within a week. That's why we proceed systematically: **Weeks 1-2: Strengthen Spleen-Stomach Function** We prescribe spleen-tonifying herbs like Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes) and Shan Yao (Chinese Yam). At this stage, physical changes may not be noticeable yet, but skipping this phase will collapse everything that follows. **Weeks 3-4: Resolve Phlegm-Dampness (痰飮)** This is when accumulated dampness and phlegm in the body are addressed. Using herbs like Ban Xia (Pinellia) and Chen Pi (Dried Tangerine Peel), bowel movements become smoother and you feel lighter. Ideally, weight loss begins now and clothes start feeling looser. **Months 2-3: Resolve Blood Stasis (瘀血) and Stabilize Constitution** We improve blood circulation and resolve blood stasis. Physical changes manifest not as dramatic weight loss but as improved body shape maintenance and enhanced skin elasticity. **After Month 3: Maintenance Phase** We adjust the formula to match your lifestyle habits and schedule monthly consultations to prevent regression patterns. The key is monitoring your body's response at each stage. Rushing the process leads back to yo-yo cycles. Slow and steady is the answer. If you've experienced yo-yo after rapid dieting before, please share that during your first consultation—we need your body's history to customize treatment.