Q. I want to know why I keep gaining weight. How do you determine the cause of my obesity?
We identify the cause by analyzing your individual constitution and metabolic state, focusing on deficiencies in Qi-Blood circulation and weakened organ functions from a TKM perspective.
📝 Detailed Answer
It is rare for weight gain to be caused simply by eating too much or moving too little. Especially for those who have undergone repeated dieting, it is highly likely that your overall metabolic efficiency has decreased.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we categorize the constitutional causes of weight gain as follows:
- Dam-jeok (Accumulated Phlegm): A state where metabolic waste accumulates, blocking the circulation of Qi and Blood and hindering metabolism.
- Bi-heo (Spleen Deficiency): A condition where the digestive system is weakened, leading to poor nutrient absorption and the accumulation of dampness in the body.
- Eo-hyeol (Blood Stasis): A state of stagnant blood circulation that causes edema in specific areas and makes it difficult to lose weight.
Therefore, rather than simply measuring your weight, we first examine where the imbalance of the internal organs (Zang-Fu) originates through pulse diagnosis and patient interviews. I personally remember trying to starve myself in the past, which only damaged my health and ruined my metabolism.
💡 Analysis Points
The core objective is to determine 'why you have developed a constitution prone to weight gain' by comprehensively analyzing your current eating habits, sleep patterns, digestive health, and the location of edema.
Expert Verified
Dr. Yeonseung Choe
Chief Director
Last reviewed 2026.04.24