Does dampness affect weight loss?

Excess dampness in the body may affect weight loss effectiveness. Dampness retention commonly manifests as physical heaviness, fatigue, oily skin, and a thick, greasy tongue coating. Individuals with this constitution often experience a slower metabolism, making it difficult for the body to effectively eliminate excess water and waste. This condition can lead to difficulty losing weight and may even cause edema. Moreover, excessive dampness can impair the function of the spleen and stomach, resulting in poor digestion and absorption, which further hampers the proper utilization of nutrients, thus negatively affecting weight loss efforts.

If you suspect that you have excessive dampness, you may try certain methods to remove dampness and improve your overall health, thereby enhancing weight loss results. In terms of diet, you can consume more foods that help eliminate dampness, such as coix seed, red beans, and winter melon, all of which aid in removing dampness from the body. At the same time, it is important to avoid excessive intake of greasy foods, sweets, and cold beverages, as these can worsen dampness. Regarding physical activity, engaging in moderate aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, or yoga can promote metabolism, accelerate the elimination of dampness, and enhance spleen and stomach function, thereby improving digestion and nutrient absorption.