Why does drinking traditional Chinese medicine cause weight gain?

Generally, weight gain from drinking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be caused by the medicine's ingredients, its regulatory effects, side effects of the medication, changes in eating habits, lack of exercise, and other factors. Details are as follows:

1. Medication ingredients: Some traditional Chinese medicines may contain high-sugar, high-fat, or high-calorie components. Long-term use of these medications can lead to an imbalance in the body's energy metabolism, causing excess energy to be converted into fat and stored in the body, thereby resulting in weight gain.

2. Regulatory effects: Traditional Chinese medicine has the function of regulating endocrine functions. Some TCMs may affect the body's metabolic processes, leading to reduced energy consumption or increased fat storage, which can cause weight gain.

3. Medication side effects: Long-term use of certain traditional Chinese medicines may cause gastrointestinal dysfunction, leading to increased appetite, excessive caloric intake, and subsequent weight gain. Some TCMs may cause side effects such as edema, which can also contribute to weight gain.

4. Changes in eating habits: During the period of taking TCM, individuals may alter their eating habits due to physical discomfort or medical advice, such as increasing food intake or consuming more high-calorie foods, which can lead to weight gain.

5. Lack of exercise: During the course of taking traditional Chinese medicine, if there is insufficient physical activity, the body's nutrients or excess calories may not be adequately metabolized, accumulating over time and ultimately leading to weight gain.

Maintaining healthy eating habits, appropriately controlling portion sizes, and avoiding excessive intake of high-calorie foods are recommended. Increasing physical activity moderately to promote metabolism can help maintain a stable weight.