Q. How can I prevent the yo-yo effect after losing weight?

Many people who experience repeated diet failure share a common pattern: extreme fasting. This triggers the body's survival mechanism, causing it to enter 'energy storage mode' once normal eating resumes, which is the essence of the yo-yo effect. From a TKM perspective, many of these individuals suffer from Spleen Deficiency (脾虛). The Spleen is responsible for the digestion and absorption of nutrients; when this function is impaired, food is not utilized efficiently and instead accumulates as Phlegm-Fluid (痰飮). This accumulation slows down metabolism and creates a vicious cycle where muscle mass decreases even as weight drops. Therefore, we prioritize constitutional improvement over simple weight loss through a three-step process: 1. Normalizing Digestion and Excretion (Approx. 2 weeks): We use herbal medicine to revitalize Spleen and Stomach functions and resolve constipation or abdominal bloating. As bowel patterns become regular, the body begins to feel stable. 2. Boosting Metabolic Tone (Approx. 4 weeks): We resolve Blood Stasis (瘀血) to improve circulation and actively discharge Phlegm-Fluid. During this stage, you will notice a decrease in waist and abdominal circumference and feel an increase in your basal metabolic rate. 3. Constitutional Stabilization (Approx. 3 months): This is the phase where your lifestyle and bodily functions harmonize. We reach a 'stabilization point' where weight remains steady even as the dosage of herbal medicine is reduced. On average, most patients experience a 5-10% reduction in weight over three months. However, the key is not the number on the scale, but whether your body has transitioned into a 'constitution that can maintain that weight.' This is what we define as true diet success.