Q. Doctor, I want to lose weight in a healthy way, specifically focusing on body fat. Is Korean medicine a good option for me? Could you recommend what would work best?

I vividly remember my own past struggles with extreme dieting; starving myself only led to dizziness and difficulty focusing at work. For individuals in their 30s to 50s, whose basal metabolic rate has naturally declined, losing body fat through starvation is nearly impossible. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we often identify this state as 'Spleen Deficiency' (脾虛), where weakened digestive and transport functions lead to poor metabolic efficiency. The core strength of a TKM weight loss program is the personalized approach. We analyze whether your weight gain stems from 'Phlegm-fluid' (痰飮)—the accumulation of metabolic waste—or 'Qi Stagnation' (氣滯), where energy flow is blocked. By using medicinal herbs tailored to your constitution, we can supplement your vital energy while effectively targeting body fat. This approach also helps manage common side effects of dieting, such as constipation or lightheadedness. Admittedly, there are practical considerations. Because these prescriptions are decocted with high-quality herbs specifically for you, the initial cost may be higher than over-the-counter supplements. The requirement to take the medicine at regular intervals can also be a commitment. Some patients may experience temporary symptoms like a dry mouth or mild palpitations as their metabolism accelerates, but these are manageable reactions that we can address by adjusting the herbal composition. Ultimately, the goal is to create an internal environment where your body burns fat optimally. Let us work together to listen to your body and achieve a healthy transformation.