Q. How do people usually manage taking herbal medicine while practicing intermittent fasting?

Based on clinical cases, there are generally two patterns. Some patients struggle with intense hunger during the fasting period, so they are prescribed herbal medicine to suppress appetite and maintain their fasting rhythm. Others experience 'binge eating' after the fast, so the treatment focuses on calming the digestive system and regulating food intake. However, this approach is not suitable for everyone. Specifically, those with Spleen Deficiency (脾虛), characterized by weak digestive functions, may experience gastrointestinal distress if they combine strict fasting with herbal medicine. Additionally, if there is a buildup of Phlegm-Fluid (痰飮)—metabolic waste products in the body—sudden fasting can exacerbate feelings of heaviness and edema. Furthermore, patients with severe Blood Stasis (瘀血) or poor circulation may react sensitively to sudden energy restriction, leading to extreme fatigue. Rather than following a trend, I strongly recommend consulting with a practitioner first to assess your current energy levels. From my own experience with trial and error, the fastest way to achieve your goal is to find the limit that your body can safely endure.