TCM for Weight Loss

Restore Balance. Revitalize Metabolism.

Struggling with weight that won’t budge despite your best efforts? At PULSE TCM, we believe that sustainable weight management starts from within. Instead of calorie counting, we identify your unique body constitution to address the internal imbalances—like slow metabolism and “dampness”—that lead to stubborn weight gain.

How TCM supports your weight loss journey

TCM focuses on the “Root” (the internal cause) rather than just the “Branch” (the symptoms). By optimizing your organ functions, we help you achieve a healthier weight naturally.

What Causes Excess Weight? A TCM Perspective

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views a healthy circulation of Qi (vital life energy) and blood, and smooth functioning of organ systems as essential to health and vitality.

TCM sees weight gain as due to imbalances in the bodily energy and organ systems. Stress, lack of physical activity, or a poor diet are common contributing factors that disrupt this flow. The following are some common bodily imbalances, or body constitutions, that are most commonly associated with excess weight:

Body Constitutions Prone to Weight Gain

Symptoms Body Characteristics Cravings
DAMPNESS
Excessive moisture or fluid accumulation in the body. 
Fatigue, feelings of ‘heaviness’, easily cold limbs Weight gain around the waist Sweets, starches, caffeine
STAGNATION OF Qi
Blockage or disruption of the body’s vital energy (Qi). 
Stressed, easily irritable or anxious, mood swings, insomnia Weight gain on upper body Greasy, sour and salty foods, alcohol, red meat
SPLEEN & KIDNEY DEFICIENCY
Organs with important roles in digestion & metabolism
Weight gain all around >Dairy, creamy foods
Note that this list is not exhaustive and there are other types of imbalances not listed that can also contribute to weight gain. Our TCM physician would conduct a through health assessment to identify your unique body condition and imbalances. 

How can TCM help with weight loss?

Each session is customized based on your pulse and tongue diagnosis.

Initial Consultation

The programme begins with a detailed interview to understand your medical history, dietary patterns, and lifestyle.

Our physicians conduct an examination using TCM diagnostic methods to identify the underlying patterns of imbalance contributing to your weight issues.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points to stimulate Qi and restore balance. It aids weight loss by:

Cupping Therapy

Cupping creates a vacuum suction on the skin’s surface to promote weight loss by:

Depending on your condition, your physician may also recommend moxibustion or  herbal medication.

Case Study

Revitalizing Metabolism & Overcoming Stubborn Weight

Patient Profile

Client O, Female, 20s

The Challenge

Client O regularly exercised but struggled to lose weight despite trying various caloric-deficit diets and cutting back on carbohydrates. Frustrated by the lack of results, she sought a more holistic approach through TCM weight management.

The TCM Assessment

After a consultation with our TCM physician, Client O was found to have Spleen Deficiency and Blood/Qi Deficiency. These imbalances manifested as chronic bloating—specifically after meals and upon waking up in the morning—indicating that her digestive system was unable to effectively process nutrients and fluids.

Results after 3 Months of Targeted TCM Treatments

"I realized my body wasn't 'broken,' it was just out of balance. Once my Spleen health was restored through acupuncture and herbs, the weight started moving naturally."
Client O

Price

First TCM trial at $78* (50% OFF)

Includes consultation with a physician and acupuncture treatment.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Locations: Great World, Paragon, The Woodleigh Mall, Millenia Walk, and Raffles Place
(View Clinic Locations & Details)

*Price is subject to GST. Valid for first-time customers only.

FAQs

Can I see just either TCM or dietitian to help me with weight loss?

Sure! You can choose to work with either professional as well. Simply select the clinician you would like to see on the appointment booking form.
We do find that patients usually experience more effective results when engaging both dietitian and TCM thus we would still recommend seeing both if possible.

How many TCM or Dietitian sessions will I need?

There are no fixed commitments required and you can freely choose the number of sessions you wish to attend. However, we would recommend these number of sessions as a minimum to experience results from the programme: 

  • TCM: 10 sessions
  • Dietitian: 3 sessions
How frequent will the visits be?

TCM:  Twice weekly during the first 2-4 weeks, and once weekly subsequently. 

Dietitian: Once every two weeks in the beginning and on month apart in the later stage. 

The sessions will require about 45-60 minutes. 

While above are the recommended treatment frequency, they can be adjusted based on each patient’s needs and availability. 

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are hair-thin. It is generally not painful, however, some individuals may feel some soreness when needles are inserted around the associated organ with blockages or imbalance. If you are still not comfortable to undergo acupuncture, however, do express it to you physician who will be able to use alternative methods. 

Which area of the body will the TCM treatment be done?

Electro-acupuncture is usually done on the stomach, arms and legs. Depending on the diagnosis by your physician, different acupoints will be taken. Cupping is normally done after acupuncture on the stomach, thighs, arms and/or back.

How do I prepare for my session with a dietitian?
  • It’s important to think of goals. What would you like to work on with the dietitian? Is there anything that you would like to change or improve?
  • Bring a list of medications/supplements with you, and be able to talk about your medical or weight history. 
  • In some cases, it may be helpful to do a 3-day food diary before the session. This is a list of everything you are eating and drinking for the last 3 days, so that the dietitian is able to get an idea of your food habits and eating patterns. 
  • Write out any questions that you would like to ask during your session. 
  • If you feel it would be helpful, you may ask a family member or friend to come with you to your session. 
How do you keep track of my progress?

The physician will examine your pulse and tongue to keep track of the changes in your body. The physician can also monitor your condition through the cupping marks as the different colours reflect different diagnostic patterns. 

 

The dietitian will work with the physician on tracking your progress. The follow-up sessions will allow you to ask questions, talk about what is going well, what is not working, and receive support and feedback from the dietitian.



How can I book for the program?

1. Complete the booking form below to make your first appointment with a TCM physician. 

2. Book your first consultation session with a dietitian. 
Do read the FAQ for more information on how you can prepare for your session with a dietitian. 

Begin your journey to a healthier body and a more confident you.

Book your appointment with a PULSE physician today.

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