Q. Even if I go on a diet, I keep gaining the weight back. Is there a way to prevent this yo-yo effect?

Those who repeatedly experience yo-yo dieting often follow a pattern of extreme restriction followed by explosive recovery. From a TKM perspective, this process frequently leads to Spleen Deficiency (脾虛, biheo), where the spleen’s function weakens sharply. The spleen is the central organ for digesting food and transforming it into energy; when strained, nutrients are not properly utilized and accumulate as fat or Phlegm-Fluid (痰飮, dameum). Phlegm-Fluid makes internal waste sticky, slowing weight loss and creating a vicious cycle that invites yo-yo effects. Additionally, dieting stress can impair blood circulation, leading to Blood Stasis (瘀血, eohyeol), which manifests as localized edema or coldness, further complicating weight control. Ultimately, the key is not just reducing calorie numbers but building a foundation where the body can properly use and eliminate energy. For example, those with Spleen Deficiency should first stabilize their meal rhythm with easily digestible, warm foods. Those prone to Blood Stasis should prioritize gentle aerobic exercise to improve blood flow. I once thought starving and exercising hard was the answer, but after some trial and error, I realized that ignoring one’s constitution makes yo-yo effects unavoidable. Assessing your own body condition before starting a diet is the most reliable preventive measure.