I have normal-weight obesity. Can exercise alone solve it, or are there situations where I must take herbal medicine?
Whether exercise alone can manage it depends on fitness, diet, and body composition. If exercise is difficult or digestion and fatigue are concerns, herbal medicine may be considered as an adjunct after assessment; it is not essential for everyone.
For normal-weight obesity in someone with sufficient fitness who can adjust their diet, consistently increasing strength training and daily activity is the foundation. Slow change with exercise does not automatically mean herbal medicine is needed; first review exercise intensity, protein and total intake, and sleep.
If digestion is poor or you become tired with little movement, Korean medicine may use pi deficiency as an interpretive framework; if heaviness and edema are prominent, phlegm-fluid retention or blood stasis may be considered. If such a state is suspected, whether to add supportive treatment is decided after care and any needed tests.
Even if herbal medicine is chosen, tell the clinician about medications, existing conditions, and goals, and monitor your response. Begin exercise with light walking and strength work, increasing it in line with recovery.
Clinician review