Q. How can I prevent weight regain after dieting?

Weight regain (yo-yo effect) often stems from ignoring one’s constitutional type. In Traditional Korean Medicine, obesity is classified into patterns such as Spleen Qi Deficiency (weak digestion), Phlegm-Dampness (fluid accumulation), or Blood Stasis (circulation issues). Without knowing your type, crash diets or medications like Wegovy or Saxenda can lower basal metabolic rate and increase rebound risk after discontinuation. A balanced diet with regular meals (carbohydrates, protein, fat) prevents Spleen damage. Exercise should include both aerobic (30+ min) and strength training (20+ min) at least 3 times weekly to elevate metabolism. Sleep deprivation disrupts appetite hormones and raises cortisol, promoting abdominal fat; TKM links this to Liver Qi Stagnation from stress, which impairs digestion and leads to obesity. Constitutional correction via herbal medicine and acupuncture aims to resolve the underlying pattern—e.g., draining dampness for Phlegm type or tonifying Spleen for Deficiency type—rather than just reducing weight. This long-term approach (≥3 months of consistent treatment) builds a sustainable, rebound-resistant physique. Cultural context: TKM views weight management as restoring internal harmony, not mere calorie restriction.