📝 Detailed Answer
In my clinical experience, patients generally fall into two categories. The first group has strong willpower, but their bodies cannot keep up. These patients often have an accumulation of 'Dameum' (phlegm-fluid retention), leaving them feeling heavy and prone to severe swelling. Once we clear these metabolic wastes and improve circulation, they typically report feeling much lighter.
The second group often consists of those who have experienced yo-yo dieting or nausea after using medications like Saxenda or Wegovy. These individuals often suffer from 'Bi-heo' (Spleen Deficiency), where weakened digestive function impairs nutrient absorption and slows down metabolism, making it easy to gain weight even with minimal intake.
I have personally experienced the pitfalls of over-restricting my diet out of pure ambition, which led to dizziness and disrupted my daily life. From a TKM perspective, this isn't a lack of willpower, but a signal that the body's balance has collapsed. Therefore, instead of indiscriminate fasting, I recommend a approach that resolves 'Eohyeol' (blood stasis) and replenishes vital energy (Qi) while managing weight.
Herbal medicine is not a magic cure for everyone. However, by filling the deficiencies and draining the excesses, dieting transforms from a 'painful struggle of endurance' into a 'habit of self-care.' Let's determine together whether your body is leaning toward Dameum or Bi-heo.