Q. I've been told my thyroid function is a bit low. Is that why I'm struggling to lose weight?

Thyroid hormones act as the primary switch determining your basal metabolic rate. When this switch is weakened, the efficiency of burning energy drops, meaning metabolic waste accumulates more easily even if you are as active as others. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), this state is viewed as Qi Deficiency (氣虛), where the body's overall ability to generate energy is diminished. In particular, if this is accompanied by Spleen Deficiency (脾虛), nutrients fail to convert into energy and instead transform into metabolic waste known as Dampness-Phlegm (濕痰/痰飮), leading to bloating and a heavy feeling in the body. Another critical factor to consider is Blood Stasis (瘀血). When blood circulation is stagnant, metabolic function inevitably declines further. Rather than focusing solely on a single numerical thyroid value, it is important to take a holistic approach: determine why your 'internal boiler' has shut down, whether there is a lack of fuel, or if debris is blocking the pathways. While thyroid function may not be the sole cause for everyone, attempting a crash diet while your metabolism is already low can push your body into an even deeper 'power-saving mode.' This can paradoxically make it even harder to lose weight in the future. The key is to assess your current metabolic level and determine which bodily functions need to be 'awakened' first.