This is an oft-asked question. “Can acupuncture really help weight loss?” The answer is a resounding “yes!” Acupuncture can help by different means. It is not generally used as a stand-alone approach, but combined with good, sound nutrition, exercise and supplementation with food concentrates, the results can be quite pleasing. But how does acupuncture work for weight loss?
Acupuncture helps improve digestion and nutrient absorption. One of the keys of weight loss is to control appetite – binge eating, cravings, etc. Acupuncture is widely known for its superb effect on treating addictions. These addictions include smoking and other tobacco addictions, heroin, cocaine and other drugs (including prescribed medications), alcohol and food. By controlling cravings and improving digestion and nutrient absorption, weight loss is possible.
Acupuncture also has a favorable effect on hormonal dysfunction. Most weight gain problems have a root in hormonal imbalance. Any of several organs/glands can be culprits: thyroid, pancreas, adrenals, liver, hypothalamus, pituitary, etc. Balancing these hormonal intricacies is instrumental in achieving a more efficient metabolism.
Inadequate sleep and excess inflammation in the body are both reasons for slow weight loss, and are treated often by acupuncturists, successfully.
There are several methods of acupuncture for weight loss. Body points are primarily used for treating everything going on in the body at the same time. Looking for the underlying reasons for the weight (that may or may not include the wrong foods, the wrong exercise or the wrong emotional state), they work to improve organ or gland function. This results in not only weight loss, but more energy, better sleep, the ability to cope with stress better and more.
Acupuncturists may also use ear points. While these points also help organ or gland function, they are primarily used to control appetite. This should be done by a Licensed Acupuncturist and not someone trained in simply stapling the ear.
The needles used are very fine, hair-like and generally painless. Most people that come in are fearful of needles, then pleasantly surprised at how little they feel, and bemoan the fact that they waited so long to give it a try.
If you are struggling with weight loss and have “tried everything”, perhaps it’s time to try the one thing you haven’t – acupuncture. Acupuncture really does help weight loss.
©2017 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L.Ac., Ph.D.
