Overweight and obesity are a growing problem in China but their causes may be differently viewed as a consequence of globalisation and the development of an obesogenic environment or as a consequence of an individual’s wellbeing. This paper explores these different explanations and the ways that the problem is addressed in Sino and European policy and TCM practice. Obesity can be linked to an unhealthy diet and eating practices and a lack of activity, and behavioural changes as well as TCM treatments that address the gastrointestinal digestive function may be effective in altering this. Obesity is, however, also a complex and global issue that needs to be recognised as a social problem.