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Causes of Obesity

Q. I want to know why I keep gaining weight. How do you determine the cause of my obesity?

A.

We begin by assessing your current bodily condition through a comprehensive checklist. It is crucial to distinguish whether weight gain is due to caloric intake or blocked internal circulation. At Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic, we analyze your dietary habits, sleep patterns, and physical signs—such as edema and digestive health—to identify your personalized root cause.

📝 Detailed Answer

Having struggled with weight management myself during my studies, I truly understand the frustration of not seeing results despite extreme fasting. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), weight gain is not viewed simply as a matter of 'calories.' Please refer to the following patterns to gauge your condition: ✓ Frequent indigestion or bloating? → This may indicate Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛). When the Spleen's function weakens, nutrient absorption is impaired and metabolic waste accumulates, making the body prone to weight gain. ✓ Heavy limbs, frequent swelling, or a feeling of 'sluggishness'? → This could be an accumulation of Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-eum, 痰飮). This refers to 'metabolic residue' that forms when fluid metabolism in the body is disrupted. ✓ High stress levels and concentrated abdominal fat? → This may be the result of Qi Stagnation (Gi-che, 氣滯) or Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血). When the flow of energy and blood is obstructed, fat tends to concentrate in specific areas. Because the root causes vary, a method that works for others may not work for you. For instance, someone with Spleen Deficiency may lose further vitality by fasting, and those with excessive Phlegm-Fluid may not find a solution through exercise alone. Identifying exactly 'why' you are gaining weight is the only way to establish an efficient treatment plan. I will provide a thorough diagnosis upon your visit.
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Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Expert Verified

Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Chief Director

Last reviewed 2026.05.02

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