In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), weight gain is viewed as a symptom of an underlying imbalance in the body. TCM practitioners identify several patterns of weight gain, each with its own unique set of symptoms and treatment strategies. Here are some common patterns of weight gain in TCM:
- Spleen Qi Deficiency: In this pattern, weight gain is associated with poor digestion, bloating, fatigue, and loose stools.
- Dampness: In this pattern, weight gain is associated with a feeling of heaviness, edema, and a tendency to retain fluids.
- Liver Qi Stagnation: In this pattern, weight gain is associated with stress, irritability, and a tendency to overeat or crave sweet foods.
- Kidney Yang Deficiency: In this pattern, weight gain is associated with a feeling of coldness, fatigue, and a tendency to gain weight in the lower body.
- Phlegm: In this pattern, weight gain is associated with a feeling of heaviness, mucus, and a tendency to have a slow metabolism.
It’s important to note that TCM patterns of weight gain are not mutually exclusive, and many people may exhibit a combination of these patterns. TCM practitioners will work to identify the underlying pattern(s) of weight gain in each individual and develop a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.
Here are some ways that TCM can help with weight loss:
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a popular treatment in TCM that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This technique can help regulate the digestive system and boost metabolism, which can aid in weight loss.
- Herbal remedies: TCM practitioners often use herbal remedies to help balance the body and promote weight loss. Some common herbs used for weight loss include lotus leaf, cassia seed, and hawthorn fruit. These herbs can help reduce appetite, increase metabolism, and promote fat burning.
- Dietary therapy: TCM practitioners may recommend specific foods and dietary guidelines to support weight loss. For example, they may recommend consuming more warming foods, such as ginger and cinnamon, to boost metabolism and digestion.
- Qi Gong and Tai Chi: These are gentle exercises that are often used in TCM to improve overall health and well-being. They can help reduce stress and improve digestion, which can support weight loss.
There are many benefits to losing excessive weight, including:
- Improved overall health: Excess weight puts a strain on the body and can increase the risk of developing a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. Losing weight can help reduce these risks and improve overall health.
- Increased energy and vitality: Carrying excess weight can make everyday tasks more challenging and draining. Losing weight can help increase energy levels and improve overall vitality, making it easier to enjoy daily activities and live life to the fullest.
- Improved mobility and flexibility: Carrying excess weight can put stress on the joints and make it difficult to move around. Losing weight can help improve mobility and flexibility, making it easier to engage in physical activity and enjoy an active lifestyle.
- Boosted self-confidence and self-esteem: Losing weight can improve body image and self-esteem, which can lead to increased confidence and a more positive outlook on life.
- Better sleep: Excess weight can contribute to sleep problems such as snoring, sleep apnea, and insomnia. Losing weight can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of sleep-related health problems.
- Improved mental health: Excess weight has been linked to an increased risk of depression and other mental health problems. Losing weight can help improve mood, reduce stress levels, and boost overall mental health.
Overall, losing excessive weight can have a significant positive impact on physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life.
At CUSV Clinic, we diagnose individual’s root cause of weight gain and prescribe the most suitable individual treatment plans . The key discipline to success is persistence with the modules listed below:
1. Pressing the point CV 12 (Zhong Wan), 4” above the navel, 120 times in the morning, and 120 times in the evening.
2. Put the external herbs at the same point CV 12 for at least 8 hours/day, either daytime or night time.
3. Take the internal herbs, 2 times per day.
4. Diet:
1) Encourage to eat:
breakfast and lunch: Fruits, vegetables in room temperature, brown rice, warm water.
Dinner: Salad, brown rice, meat, eggs, complete dinner before 6:00PM
2) To avoid:
Greasy food, starch ( flours, rice, etc.), cheese, fat, oily foods, sweets, milk, and etc.
5. Exercises
Jogging, fast walking (if you have difficulty walking fast, you may do slow walking), stretching for legs, lower back and shoulders. Yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi, Pilates, dance, etc.
With strong will and persistence, you can anticipate to lose 5 lbs per week.
You are welcome to consult with CUSV Clinic licensed providers for details.