Q. I'm aiming for a body fat percentage of around 25%. What is the best approach at a Korean medicine clinic?

To be honest, when I was younger, I tried starving myself out of pure ambition. I ended up feeling completely drained and dizzy—it was a total waste of effort. That is why I always emphasize to my patients: 'Let's check the state of your body's engine first.' The advantages of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) diet programs are clear. We can increase your basal metabolic rate based on your specific constitution and address not just appetite suppression, but also edema and fatigue. It is also an attractive approach as it reduces concerns about side effects like anxiety or insomnia often associated with synthetic stimulants. Of course, there are trade-offs. The response may not be as immediate as with Western pharmaceuticals, and some patients may find the unique scent or taste of herbal medicine off-putting. Additionally, you may feel temporarily lethargic as your constitution undergoes improvement. The key is how to handle the 'residue' inside your body. If you have significant accumulations of Eohyeol (瘀血, blood stasis) or Dameum (痰飮, phlegm-fluid retention) that obstruct the flow of Qi and Blood, weight loss remains difficult regardless of caloric restriction. Specifically, if you are in a state of Biheo (脾虛, Spleen deficiency/weak digestive function), a prescription to boost your vital energy is more urgent than fasting. Ultimately, the 'best' method depends on your current metabolic efficiency. I encourage you to visit the clinic so we can analyze your exact condition together.