Q. I'm currently practicing intermittent fasting; is it okay to take herbal medicine at the same time?

Many people try trending diet methods only to find themselves feeling dizzy or depleted of energy; simply starving is rarely the answer. When taking Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) during intermittent fasting, there are two main considerations. First, if you have a relatively healthy digestive system, taking the medicine during your eating window is the most straightforward approach. However, for those with Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛) or weak digestive functions, taking herbal medicine on an empty stomach may cause heartburn or nausea. In such cases, taking the medicine immediately before or during a meal is recommended. Conversely, if you experience intense hunger or lethargy during your fasting window that interferes with daily life, we can strategically schedule your dosage. TKM does more than just aid weight loss; it helps remove Phlegm-Fluid (Dameum, 痰飮) and resolve Blood Stasis (Eohyeol, 瘀血) to improve overall circulation. By utilizing these mechanisms, we can guide you to keep your metabolism functioning smoothly even during fasting periods. Ultimately, the key is whether your body can sustain this specific schedule. Forcing a fast can lead to a metabolic drop, making it harder to lose weight in the long run. Please visit the clinic and share your fasting window and digestive status so we can design the most comfortable and effective medication schedule for you.