Q. Instead of extreme diets like the Denmark Diet, what methods do you recommend at a Korean medicine clinic?

I understand the temptation to try extreme fasting when you're motivated, but I've experienced how the resulting dizziness can bring your daily life to a standstill. This is why I advocate for a customized approach in Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM). The primary focus is 'personalization.' We first address conditions such as Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛), where weakened spleen function leads to a slowed metabolism, and work to boost your overall energy levels. Simultaneously, we target the removal of 'Dam-eum' (phlegm-fluid retention), which are metabolic waste products in the body that often cause stubborn edema and bloating. To be honest about the drawbacks: you may not feel an immediate, sharp suppression of appetite as you might with some synthetic pharmaceuticals. Additionally, those sensitive to the distinct aroma or taste of herbal medicine may find it unfamiliar for the first few days. Ultimately, the answer depends on your current physiological state. Diets that excessively strip the body of nutrients often return as a 'boomerang' in the form of the yo-yo effect. I suggest visiting the clinic to identify your constitution (Sasang typology) first, and then adjusting your weight at a pace your body can safely handle.