If you’re having trouble dropping those extra pounds, you’ve undoubtedly tried a variety of diets and workout plans. Have you ever thought about trying acupuncture for weight loss, though? This age-old Chinese method is becoming more well-liked as an adjunct to losing extra weight. This article will discuss the possible advantages of acupuncture for weight loss, its mechanism of action, and whether it’s worthwhile to try.
What is Acupuncture?
One important part of the thousands-year-old traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is acupuncture. It entails inserting tiny needles known as acupoints into particular body locations. Qi, or life energy, is said to flow through these acupoints through channels or meridians, according to TCM theory (pronounced “chee”). Acupuncturists seek to eliminate blockages and restore the equilibrium of qi by stimulating these points with needles, thereby enhancing general health and wellbeing.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Weight Loss?
Acupuncture for weight loss may seem paradoxical, yet many adherents assert that it can be a helpful supplement to the balanced diet and exercise regime. undefined
Suppressing Appetite and Cravings
Appetite control and craving reduction are two of the main mechanisms by which acupuncture for weight loss is believed to function. It is thought that particular acupoints affect the synthesis and release of hormones that regulate appetite and feelings of fullness, such as serotonin, endorphins, and leptin. Acupuncture has the potential to increase feelings of fullness following meals and reduce cravings and overeating by regulating these hormones.
Boosting Metabolism
Additionally, it’s thought that acupuncture increases metabolism, which helps you lose weight by quickening the pace at which your body burns calories. It is believed that certain acupuncture points activate the thyroid gland, which is essential for controlling metabolism. Acupuncture may help speed up your metabolism and burn through extra fat and calories by enhancing thyroid function.
Reducing Stress and Emotional Eating
Long-term stress is an already known factor of this disorder. There’s a close relationship between stress and binging on food. It influences the body’s response to cortisol hormones (which is the one that shows stress levels). When we are put under stress, our bodies lead to releasing cortisol, a hormone that may escalate appetite and lose fat storage, especially around the belly region. Acupuncture is widely known for its peculiarness to cause extreme relaxation and bring down the stress levels in people. Therefore, by guiding you to relax better, acupuncture could help you avoid hitherto stress-driven overeating patterns and cut down on your potential weight gain.
Improving Digestion and Absorption
TCM claims that acupuncture can enhance the absorption of nutrients from food and help control digestive processes. A well-functioning digestive system enables your body to absorb nutrients more effectively, which may result in higher energy levels, enhanced metabolic processes, and more effective weight management.
The Acupuncture Experience for Weight Loss
Initial Consultation
Your acupuncturist will first conduct a thorough consultation to understand your health history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals. They may also examine your tongue and take your pulse, as these are diagnostic tools in TCM.
Determining Acupoints
The acupuncturist will choose which acupoints to focus on during your treatment based on your unique needs and the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. The lower extremities, belly, and ears are common locations for weight loss points.
Needle Insertion
The acupuncturist will identify the acupoints and then carefully place thin, sterile needles into each one. The majority of people experience little to no discomfort during this procedure.
Needle Retention and Stimulation
The needles will remain in place for a period of time, typically 20-30 minutes. During this time, the acupuncturist may gently rotate or stimulate the needles to enhance their effects.
Post-Treatment Recommendations
After the needles are removed, your acupuncturist may provide additional recommendations, such as dietary or lifestyle changes, to support your weight loss journey.
It’s important to note that acupuncture for weight loss is not a one-time fix; it typically requires a series of treatments, along with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, to achieve and maintain desired results.
Does Acupuncture for Weight Loss Really Work?
Although there is currently a lack of scientific evidence supporting acupuncture’s ability to help people lose weight, some studies have produced encouraging findings. Here are some instances:
A 2019 review published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that acupuncture combined with lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise) was more effective for weight loss than lifestyle modifications alone.
A 2017 study published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine reported that participants who received acupuncture treatments experienced significant reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference compared to those in a control group.
A 2013 study in the journal Obesity Surgery found that participants who received ear acupuncture treatments lost more weight and experienced greater improvements in insulin resistance and cholesterol levels than those who did not receive acupuncture.
To strengthen the evidence, more high-quality studies are required, as the consistency and quality of the research on acupuncture for weight loss varies. Furthermore, each person will react differently to acupuncture, and its efficacy may vary depending on a variety of factors, including the experience of the practitioner, the particular acupoints used, and the patient’s general health and lifestyle.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Weight Loss?
When performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner, acupuncture is generally considered safe. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of:
- Soreness or bruising at the needle insertion sites
- Dizziness or fainting during treatment
- Infections (rare, if proper sterilization techniques are not followed)
- Nerve damage (very rare, if needles are inserted incorrectly)
- It’s important to choose an acupuncturist who is licensed and has extensive training and experience in the practice. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or a pacemaker, should consult with their healthcare provider before pursuing acupuncture for weight loss.
Incorporating Acupuncture into Your Weight Loss Journey
Although acupuncture for weight loss alone is not a universal solution, it is an excellent additive to a complete weight loss method that includes a balanced diet and regular exercises. undefined
Set Realistic Expectations
It’s critical to go into acupuncture for weight loss with reasonable expectations. Although it might aid in decreasing stress-related overeating, increasing metabolism, and suppressing appetite, it is neither a magic bullet nor a replacement for a balanced lifestyle. For optimal effects, combine acupuncture with other weight loss techniques and exercise patience and consistency during your treatments.
Commit to a Healthy Diet and Exercise Routine
In addition to a healthy, calorie-restricted diet and consistent exercise, acupuncture should be used. Although your acupuncturist can offer advice on diet and exercise, it is ultimately your responsibility to modify your lifestyle in a way that will support your weight loss objectives.
Manage Stress and Emotional Eating
The ability of acupuncture to lessen stress and emotional eating is one of its possible advantages. Benefit from this by combining stress-reduction practices with your acupuncture treatments, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Be Consistent with Treatments
Acupuncture for weight loss often requires a series of treatments over several weeks or months to achieve optimal results. Be consistent with your appointments and follow any post-treatment recommendations from your acupuncturist.
Work with a Licensed and Experienced Practitioner
When seeking acupuncture for weight loss, it’s crucial to work with a licensed and experienced practitioner. Look for an acupuncturist who specializes in weight management or has extensive experience in this area. Don’t hesitate to ask about their credentials and approach to treatment.
Is Acupuncture the Weight Loss Trend for You?
Acupuncture for weight loss is a growing trend that offers a complementary approach to traditional diet and exercise strategies. While the scientific evidence is still emerging, many individuals have reported positive experiences with acupuncture, particularly when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
