Q. I'm struggling to lose belly fat specifically. What weight loss methods do you recommend at a Korean medicine clinic?

As a practitioner, I can personally relate to the frustration of stubborn belly fat. For patients facing this issue, I generally propose a three-pronged approach based on TKM principles. First, herbal medicine is used to increase your basal metabolic rate and suppress 'false hunger.' This is particularly effective for those with Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo), where impaired digestive and absorptive functions lead to fat accumulation. However, the bitter taste or sensitivity to certain herbs can be a barrier for some. Second, acupuncture and pharmacopuncture are excellent for improving localized circulation. When 'Blood Stasis' (Eohyeol—stagnant blood) or 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dameum—metabolic waste) accumulates in a specific area, it prevents fat loss in that zone. These treatments directly target and resolve these blockages. The main drawback is that frequent clinic visits can be burdensome for busy professionals. Ultimately, the key is a 'personalized combination.' For instance, those who have experienced a severe drop in energy after using GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy or Saxenda require prescriptions blended with tonic herbs to restore vitality. Meanwhile, those prone to chronic swelling need prescriptions focused on diuretic and detoxifying effects. I've personally experienced the 'yo-yo effect' from reckless fasting in the past. That is why I strongly advise identifying where your body's energy flow is blocked before setting an overly ambitious goal. Please feel free to visit us so we can figure out the best path for your specific body type together.