Weight Loss
People who are overweight or obese face an increased risk of weight-related health problems. Diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease are just a few of the conditions that have been linked to excessive weight. While the health benefits of losing weight are numerous, it can also help to increase energy levels and mobility, improve breathing and sleep patterns and improve the overall quality of life for most people. Losing weight can often be achieved through a combination of exercise and diet. Some people however, may find it difficult to lose weight, and turn to acupuncture to help with the weight loss process. Acupuncture treatment may help to decrease appetite and improve metabolism to assist in weight loss. Acupuncture can help people focus on their weight loss goals and stick to their diet and exercise regimen, by reducing stress and balancing the energy in the body.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture treatments may help to suppress appetite, boost metabolism, increase energy and reduce stress. Acupuncture may also help to balance the digestive system and improve weight loss. It helps to stimulate the release of hormones (endorphins) that can reduce body fat and insulin levels. Recent studies have indicated that when acupuncture is combined with traditional methods of weight loss, patients may lose more weight.
The Acupuncture Method
Auricular acupuncture, or ear acupuncture, is common treatment method used to assist with weight loss. During auricular acupuncture treatment, acupuncture points on the ear are stimulated with fine needles, either manually or with electro-stimulation. This usually involves manipulating points on the ear to control food cravings and addictive tendencies. At the end of treatment, patients may have ear seeds or tiny magnetic therapy balls placed over some of the ear acupuncture points. These magnetic balls allow the patient to squeeze and stimulate the acupuncture points when they experience food cravings or in times of stress. Points on the body may also be treated with acupuncture to stimulate proper digestion and increase metabolism. Combined with a diet and exercise program, acupuncture may be effective in helping people to lose weight.