Q. I keep experiencing the yo-yo effect despite dieting. How can I identify the fundamental cause of obesity in my body?

Many people mistake this for a lack of willpower, but it is often a sign that your body's 'metabolic engine' is malfunctioning. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), obesity is viewed not merely as a calorie imbalance, but as a dysfunction of organ systems and an imbalance in the flow of Qi and Blood. First, we examine 'Dam-eum' (phlegm-fluid retention). This refers to a state where metabolic waste products are not properly excreted and accumulate as viscous fluids in the body. An excess of Dam-eum slows down metabolism and creates an environment where weight gain occurs easily. Second, we check for 'Bi-heo' (Spleen Deficiency). When the functional capacity of the Spleen is weakened, the body's ability to digest, absorb, and transport nutrients diminishes. Consequently, nutrients that should be utilized as energy are more likely to be stored as fat. Lastly, we look for 'Eo-hyeol' (blood stasis). When blood circulation is impaired and stagnant blood accumulates, it can lead to severe lower-body edema or localized fat accumulation in specific areas. Because these root causes are difficult to diagnose on your own, a professional consultation and pulse diagnosis are necessary to pinpoint exactly where the blockage lies. Identifying the underlying cause is the only way to develop a customized strategy to break the cycle of the yo-yo effect. Please visit our clinic for a comprehensive evaluation.