obesity

 Obesity - How to Support Weight Loss with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Obesity is becoming a growing health problem worldwide, and its causes are complex. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), excess body weight is often due to disruptions in the flow of Qi energy, accumulation of dampness, and weakening of internal organs, especially the spleen and stomach. TCM offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, combining herbal medicine, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and a properly selected diet.

1. Herbal medicine

In TCM, herbs are used to support metabolism, remove excess moisture, and restore the body's energy balance. The right combination of herbs helps with weight loss and improve digestion.

The most commonly used herbs to aid weight loss:

Huang Qi (Astragalus) – strengthens the Spleen Qi and helps remove excess dampness.

Fu Ling (Poria) – has a diuretic effect and helps reduce moisture, which is helpful for excess fat tissue.

Shan Zha (Hawthorn) – supports digestion and accelerates fat metabolism.

Chen Pi (mandarin peel) – regulates Qi and helps with flatulence and digestive problems.

A simple recipe for a slimming tea:

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of Hawthorn, 1 teaspoon of Astragalus, 1 teaspoon of Fu Ling.

Preparation: Pour 500 ml of boiling water over the herbs, brew for 15 minutes. Drink in the morning on an empty stomach to stimulate digestion and help burn fat.

2. The role of diet in the weight loss process

In TCM, diet is a key element in supporting health and weight loss. It is important to avoid cold, moist foods, such as raw fruits, dairy products, and fried foods, as they weaken the spleen and can lead to moisture retention, promoting the formation of fat tissue. Instead, warm, easily digestible foods are recommended, which support metabolism and harmonize Qi.

Key principles of the TCM diet:

Eat warm meals regularly – soups, cooked vegetables and whole-grain groats support metabolism.

Avoid raw and cold foods – foods straight from the fridge, cold drinks and raw vegetables can weaken the spleen.

Choose foods with moisture-drying properties – such as ginger, cinnamon, brown rice and mung beans.

The diet should also be rich in fiber to support intestinal peristalsis and naturally help in weight loss.

3. Acupressure

Acupressure supports energy balance and stimulates the flow of Qi, which is key to weight loss. Regular stimulation of the appropriate acupuncture points can help control appetite, speed up metabolism and reduce the stress that often accompanies obesity.

Key acupressure points to aid weight loss:

CV12 (Zhongwan) – located on the midline of the body, above the navel. Supports digestion and harmonizes energy in the stomach.

ST36 (Zusanli) – located below the kneecap, supports metabolism and overall vitality.

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – a point on the inside of the leg, helps remove excess moisture and supports the function of the spleen.

How to use: Press selected points for 1-2 minutes, using moderate pressure and gentle circular movements. Repeat daily, especially before meals.

4. Qigong exercises

Qigong is a Chinese exercise system that helps harmonize the flow of energy in the body, improving the work of internal organs and supporting metabolic processes. Regular practice of Qigong helps burn calories, improves muscle flexibility and increases energy levels.

Simple Qigong exercise to aid weight loss:

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent.

Raise your arms to chest height, using gentle circulating movements of energy, as if you were forming a ball of energy between your hands.

Inhale, raising your arms upwards; exhale, lowering them slowly along your body.

Repeat the exercise 10 times, focusing on calm breathing and smooth movement. This exercise calms the mind and harmonizes the flow of Qi.

5. Connection with Western Medicine

TCM, when used in conjunction with Western medicine, can effectively support the weight loss process. It is worth consulting a doctor to tailor an individual health strategy. Popular weight loss medications can be helpful, especially when used in the short term in conjunction with a healthy diet and physical activity.

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss that not only promotes weight loss but also strengthens the body and supports its energy balance. Regular use of herbs, Qigong exercises, acupressure and a properly selected diet can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight while taking care of your overall well-being.

For best results, it is worth using a holistic approach, combining TCM methods with Western medicine and healthy eating habits.

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