Q. I'm currently taking medication for diabetes. Is it safe to try a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) diet program? Are there any side effects?

In my clinical experience, I've learned that every patient's body reacts differently, and for those with diabetes, the priority is recovering 'blood glucose regulation ability' rather than simply losing weight. From a TKM perspective, this state is often viewed as Spleen Deficiency (脾虛). When the Spleen's function is weakened, the body cannot utilize energy efficiently, making it prone to the accumulation of metabolic waste. Relying solely on fasting or potent stimulants can cause side effects such as dizziness and severe lethargy. Therefore, my treatment focuses on two key areas: first, clearing 'Dam-eum' (痰飮), which refers to stagnant fluids and metabolic waste, to improve overall circulation. Second, I address 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血), or blood stasis. When blood is viscous and stagnant, nutrient delivery to cells is impaired, creating an environment where weight loss becomes more difficult. The core of managing weight while stabilizing blood sugar is improving 'metabolic efficiency.' Since responses vary based on individual constitution, a precise diagnosis is essential. By considering the interactions between your current pharmaceutical medication and herbal prescriptions, we can safely achieve your health goals together.