Weight Loss and Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine for millennia. It involves inserting extremely thin needles into the skin at specific locations. Ancient practitioners are said to have identified how strategic locations on the skin correspond to particular aspects of our health. Moreover, they believed that gentle needling of the skin would promote the free-flow of qi (“chi”) or life-force energy, resulting in an improved state of health, which is why Weight Loss and Acupuncture go well together.
While the specific mechanisms at play are not yet well understood, the West has openly welcomed acupuncture as an effective means of relieving pain and a variety of other ailments. In recent years, however, patients and practitioners alike have begun exploring other potential applications for this ancient practice – weight loss chief among them. Does acupuncture work for weight loss? Let’s take a look at how it weighs-up as a means of losing those extra few pounds.
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Does acupuncture work for weight loss?
New evidence is showing that acupuncture may play a positive role in a balanced weight loss regimen. One recent study looked at two distinct approaches – both involving acupuncture points on the ear. The first approach treated one specific point commonly associated with hunger. The second approach utilized 5 separate points on the ear associated with a variety of metabolic functions.
While both approaches were found to positively impact overweight patients, the 5-point approach was found to be the most effective. Patients in this group saw notable changes in their percentage of body fat, waist size, and raw weight. While this is just one study, many studies have now indicated that acupuncture can certainly elicit an impressive variety of health benefits, helping to return balance (or homeostasis) to the body.
It’s worth noting, however, that study above was carried out in a controlled fashion. Factors such as diet and exercise were limited, and not explicitly designed to assist in the weight loss process. Similarly, while acupuncture treatments are often tailored to a patient’s needs, this study stimulated a specific set of points. With a complete and personalized regimen, it isn’t hard to believe that impressive results could be within grasp.
Benefits of acupuncture for weight loss
A variety of factors are thought to influence weight gain, with the offending factors changing from person to person. Acupuncture may provide a gateway through which these factors can be controlled. Some liken acupuncture to an engineer delving into computer software, directly changing the way the system operates. In a similar way, acupuncturists may help to identify and regulate any combination of the following:
- Hormones
- Food cravings
- Metabolism
- Digestion
- Stress
- Sleep
By helping return balance to these elements, acupuncture serves as a powerful home base on the journey of weight loss. It can kick-start many positive changes within the body, including changes in hunger, fat storage, and feelings of fullness – all significant steps in the right direction.
For best results, however, it’s key to couple regular acupuncture treatments with other relevant lifestyle changes. A comprehensive wellness plan, including healthy food choices, should provide the momentum you need to reach your target weight quickly and healthily.
Ready to Incorporate Acupuncture into Your Weight Loss Journey?
If you are looking for acupuncture or weight loss services in Maryland and DC, contact Nava today at 1-800-762-6282 or request an appointment online.