Scientific Research on Acupuncture for Weight Loss

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice, has been gaining popularity in recent years as a potential method for weight loss. But what does the scientific research say about using acupuncture for weight loss? In today’s article, Healthglowy will share the connection between acupuncture and weight loss, explore what research reveals about acupuncture weight loss, and discuss the benefits and costs of this method.

1. The connection between weight loss and acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Although it is not a magic solution for weight loss, research shows that it can help with weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

So what scientific studies have proven that acupuncture for weight loss? Let’s explore below!

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2. What do scientific studies say?

According to recent studies, acupuncture for weight loss may aid in promoting successful weight management:

1. In one study, the effects of body and auricular acupuncture to lose weight in obese women were examined. It was discovered that the recipients of auricular acupuncture lost around 8 pounds more than the recipients of acupuncture on other body regions.
2. Another research showed that women in their 20s and 30s who were overweight and had six weekly sessions of auricular acupuncture saw a decrease in their waist circumference.
3. Many individuals tend to gain weight when they are stressed. However, research suggests that acupuncture needles can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural “feel good” chemicals. This is believed to have a soothing and relaxing effect that can reduce the urge to indulge in stress eating caused by tension, frustration, and nervousness.
4. Furthermore, a 2018 study that reviewed multiple research studies found that when combined with lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, improved sleep, stress management, and a nutrition-balanced diet, acupuncture can be effective in reducing weight.

3. Benefit of weight-loss acupuncture

From the above scientific studies, we can see that acupuncture has a profound connection with weight loss. So what are the main benefits of using acupuncture for weight loss?

• Suppress appetite: Acupuncture can help regulate hormones related to hunger and fullness such as leptin and ghrelin. This makes us feel full longer and reduces calorie intake.
• Reduce stress: Chronic stress can contribute to weight gain by increasing cortisol levels, promoting fat storage. Acupuncture’s potential to promote relaxation and reduce stress hormones may indirectly support weight management efforts.
• Improved metabolism: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of enzymes involved in metabolism, potentially leading to a slight increase in calorie burn.

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4. Acupuncture points for weight loss

The acupuncture points used for weight loss vary depending on each individual’s specific condition. However, there are 3 main acupuncture points for weight loss goals:

1. Stomach 36 (ST 36): Located in the lower leg, about 4 fingers wide below the kneecap and 1 finger wide outward from the leg. Dya is the point that regulates digestion and reduces appetite.
2. Spleen 6 (SP 6): Located on the inside of the lower leg, about 4 fingers wide above the ankle bone. Has the effect of regulating digestion, supporting metabolism, and balancing hormones.
3. Ear points: Certain points on the ear, such as the hunger point (located at the top of the ear) or the stomach point (located at the inner fold of the ear), are stimulated to suppress appetite, which in turn leads to losing weight.

5. Cost of acupuncture for weight loss

It usually takes many sessions for someone to notice results, much like with other weight loss techniques. One would require several treatments over a lengthy period—up to eight weeks with multiple visits each week—to lose 10 to 15 pounds.

6. Pros and cons of acupuncture for weight loss

6.1 Pros

Enhance energy

A sedentary lifestyle is a significant contributor to obesity in many individuals, which may be due to physical or mental limitations. Acupuncture is a natural therapy that can help relieve both physical and emotional stress, leaving patients feeling revitalized after each session. To achieve weight loss, it is essential to maintain an active lifestyle and remain energetic.

Supports obesity-related conditions

Obese people may experience related problems such as knee, back, and neck pain as their bodies are overworked due to the extra weight. During acupuncture weight loss treatment, you can discuss these concerns with your acupuncturist, so he or she can recommend a treatment plan that suits your physical condition.

Can be treated with other methods

Acupuncture can also enhance the effectiveness of any medical therapy you may already be receiving for weight loss.

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6.2 Cons

Need time

Losing weight can be a slow process, and the duration of weight loss varies from person to person. Many factors such as environmental, psychological, and physical conditions contribute to obesity.

Acupuncture can be a safe and painless way to lose weight for those who are committed to the treatment and lead a healthy lifestyle. Although the desired results may not be visible immediately, regular acupuncture sessions can aid weight loss.

Infection is possible

Infections caused by acupuncture treatments are uncommon but can occur. To avoid this, it is important to receive treatment from a competent and skilled acupuncturist.

7. Acupuncture for weight loss before and after

Below is Allison’s story of using acupuncture to lose weight, a story that has helped many people believe more in this treatment method.

“After giving birth to her second child, 25-year-old Allison found herself in a common situation among new mothers: she needed to lose a few pounds but didn’t know how to do it. She tried changing her diet and exercising regularly, but the weight didn’t come off. So, she decided to try something different: acupuncture.

Allison first saw a chiropractor for adjustments and acupuncture for her back problems. When she asked how acupuncture could help, the doctor mentioned weight loss. She was very excited and immediately signed up for treatment.

At first, acupuncture treatment is quite difficult and painful. She had to lie motionless for another half hour after needles were stabbed all over her body. However, things took a strange turn when the acupuncturist hooked the needles in her abdomen to a battery to create an electric current to flow into them. Allison felt a strange feeling and a stomach ache the next day.

The acupuncture treatment consisted of weekly one-hour sessions, along with a small magnet taped to her ear. Whenever she felt hungry, she was supposed to squeeze the magnet, which would use the south polarity to restore areas of weakness or deficiency in her system that could cause food cravings.

After twelve weeks of weekly sessions, Allison lost a pound or two per week, and the magnet helped her to feel less hungry. However, she warns that acupuncture is not a magic solution and that you still need to follow a healthy diet and workout regimen. It only provides an additional push along the journey.”

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8. FAQs

1. Does ear acupuncture help with weight loss?

Ear acupuncture involves applying pressure or inserting small needles into specific points on the ear. There is some research supporting that this method can help with weight loss by suppressing appetite. However, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.

2. How effective is acupuncture for weight loss?

The effectiveness of acupuncture for weight loss varies between individuals because it depends largely on each person’s physical condition. For acupuncture to lose weight to be effective, you should combine a healthy diet and regular exercise.

3. How many sessions of acupuncture are needed for weight loss?

The number of sessions required for weight loss can vary depending on individual goals and responses to treatment. It is recommended to consult with a practitioner to determine a suitable treatment plan.

4. Can acupuncture help you lose belly fat?

Acupuncture can help support belly fat loss when combined with adjustments to your daily lifestyle. However, it should be noted that acupuncture alone is unlikely to produce significant weight loss results and should be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

In conclusion, acupuncture for weight loss offers a comprehensive approach to supporting individuals in achieving their weight loss objectives. By honing in on specific acupoints and harmonizing the body’s energy flow, acupuncture can advance metabolism, mitigate cravings, and enhance overall well-being. Consider incorporating acupuncture into your weight loss journey and collaborate with a skilled practitioner to craft a tailored treatment strategy.

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