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Doctor's Recommendation Guide
Doctor's Recommendation Guide

Q. Many people use things like Saxenda or Wegovy; what are the advantages of diet programs at a Korean medicine clinic?

A.

Western medications offer the advantage of rapid weight loss. However, they can be burdensome due to side effects like nausea or the risk of the yo-yo effect. Korean herbal medicine takes a different approach by refining your constitution and activating metabolism to restore bodily balance. Neither is objectively 'correct'; the choice depends on your current health condition and your personal priorities.

📝 Detailed Answer

Many people have tried extreme fasting driven by strong willpower, only to experience dizziness and an inability to function in daily life. Such experiences highlight that the most important factor is finding a 'sustainable method.' The primary advantage of Western pharmaceutical agents is their ability to suppress appetite quickly and powerfully, providing significant support for those who struggle with willpower. However, side effects such as vomiting and nausea are common, and the yo-yo effect upon discontinuing the medication can be quite distressing. Korean Medicine (TKM) diet programs focus on repairing the 'engine of the body.' We remove Eohyeol (瘀血, stagnant blood) and Dameum (痰飮, accumulated waste/phlegm) to ensure a smooth metabolism. For those with Bi-heo (脾虛, deficiency of the Spleen), we enhance the body's ability to regulate digestion and absorption, which helps prevent the yo-yo effect. In exchange, achieving the same dramatic numerical changes as Western medicine typically takes more time. When asked which is better, I always suggest first considering whether your body is in a state that can withstand the treatment. Rushing into weight loss without considering your health can lead to physical depletion and counterproductive results. Since the optimal method varies based on your health status and goals, I encourage you to visit the clinic so we can determine the best path together.
#recommendation #pros-cons
Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Expert Verified

Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Chief Director

Last reviewed 2026.05.13

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