Q. Doctor, what do you usually recommend for men who want to lose weight? I've reached a limit just by exercising alone.

As someone who also experienced weight gain after my mid-30s, I deeply understand how difficult it is to resist late-night snacks or a cold beer after work. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), men often exhibit symptoms of 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo). When the Spleen—the organ system responsible for digestion—weakens, metabolic waste known as 'Phlegm-rheum' (Dam-eum) accumulates, shifting the body into a state where it becomes resistant to weight loss. TKM weight loss treatments focus on normalizing these disrupted metabolic functions. The greatest advantage is the 'personalized prescription.' Since muscle mass and physical conditions vary greatly among individuals, we tailor the herbal medicine to minimize side effects and replenish vitality. Unlike extreme fasting, this approach fills the body with energy, preventing the exhaustion often felt during a busy workday. However, there are challenges: the unique scent of herbal decoctions may be bothersome, and one must not rely solely on the medicine. Herbal medicine acts as a 'pacemaker' to improve metabolic efficiency, but lifestyle changes are essential to prevent the yo-yo effect. Whether your body is in a state of 'Damp-heat' (accumulation of internal heat and waste) or 'Qi Deficiency' determines the herbal composition, so I recommend receiving a precise diagnosis to find the best approach for your specific condition.