TCM believe that weight gain and obesity are caused when the liver and spleen do not function optimally. The spleen controls the movements of the digestive system, directs the digestion of food and conversion of food and fluids into energy or “qi.”The spleen then directs this energy to all the parts of the body.
When the spleen malfunctions, the qi stagnates and a condition called dampness or fat is created leading to weight gain. People also experiences feeling of heaviness, water retention, slowed metabolism and fatigue.