Q. Could taking herbal weight loss medicine cause heart palpitations or insomnia? I'm worried about potential side effects.

Having experienced the restlessness and insomnia from pushing myself too hard with weight loss supplements during my own studies, I truly understand your anxiety. I will explain the physiological responses to herbal weight loss medicine in stages: 1. Sympathetic Nervous System Activation: As metabolic rates increase to facilitate the burning of body fat, you may experience an increased heart rate or slight tremors in the hands. 2. Fluid Metabolism Shift: While discharging 'Dameum' (痰飮, phlegm-fluid or metabolic waste), you may experience dry mouth or increased thirst. 3. Energy Expenditure Phase: A sudden increase in energy consumption may lead to temporary fatigue or light dizziness. 4. Digestive Response: Those with 'Bi-Heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency or weak digestive function) may experience initial indigestion or mild nausea. 5. Circulation Promotion: As blood circulation accelerates and 'Eohyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis) is resolved, you may feel a sensation of warmth throughout the body. Most of these symptoms are signals that your body is adapting to a new metabolic environment. However, these should not be viewed as 'pain you must simply endure.' At Baekrokdam Clinic, our approach is to precisely refine your prescription based on the level of discomfort you report to match your current physiological state.