Acupuncture and Weight Loss

By Monica Cater, LAc

Bluewater Acupuncture

. https://www.bluewater-acupuncture.com/

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Acupuncture and Weight Loss

Many people ask if acupuncture can help them lose weight. If there were specific acupuncture points that could help people lose weight, the profession would explode off the charts. However, acupuncture can support clients in their efforts to lose weight if used in conjunction with other traditional weight loss strategies such as exercise, and diet/nutrition.

How does acupuncture support weight loss? An acupuncturist may diagnose Chinese medicine patterns of imbalance and once those imbalances are corrected (it may take several treatments), the person may experience an increase in energy, strength and vitality, a more restful sleep, and an overall sense of well being. When this happens, a person is in a better position to focus on their lifestyle changes for weight loss.

Acupuncture helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and balances the emotions whether it be anger/frustration, worry, fear or others. So, for those who are “emotional or stress eaters”, acupuncture can create a calming, relaxing effect, which may decrease the need for excessive eating.

Some medications may lead to weight gain such as certain antidepressants, steroids, beta blockers, and medications for diabetes. In many cases, acupuncture may help manage, control, or improve the medical conditions that require these medications. If your goal is to reduce or eliminate medication, always consult your doctor and do it under his/her supervision. Acupuncturists can also work closely with your doctor to support your wellness goals.

There is some clinical research that found acupuncture and auricular (ear) acupuncture to help with appetite suppression, management of cravings, and weight reduction when combined with traditional weight loss methods. Of course more research is still required.

As you plan your health and wellness strategies, consider acupuncture as a safe, non-invasive, non-drug, holistic option.