Acupuncture For Weight Loss: Decrease Cravings & Boost Metabolism
Obesity is a serious public health issue in the United States. An estimated third of adult and twenty percent of children in this country are overweight or obese. Obesity is bad for your self-image and increases your risk of chronic health conditions.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy, or "qi". Acupuncture can help you lose weight by regulating the hormones and chemicals in your body, as well as stimulating metabolism. Preliminary research shows that acupuncture is more effective than diet and exercise in losing weight. Auricular acupuncture, also known as ear acupuncture, is particularly helpful for decreasing cravings. Acupuncture can also be used to support weight loss efforts by addressing underlying factors such as stress, poor digestion, low metabolism, and hormonal imbalances.
Let’s explore the benefits of acupuncture for weight loss by going a little deeper into the different ways it helps support balance in the body:
1. Appetite Suppression: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which can help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, all of which can contribute to overeating. Acupuncture can also stimulate nerve receptors in the stomach to induce a feeling of fullness.
2. Metabolism Boost: Acupuncture can help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the digestive system, which can increase metabolism and improve digestion. This can result in a higher calorie burn throughout the day.
3. Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture can help regulate the hormones that control appetite, such as ghrelin and leptin. By balancing these hormones, acupuncture can reduce cravings and promote healthy eating patterns.
4. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture can reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Regular acupuncture can help you feel more relaxed and less emotionally driven to eat unhealthy foods. While acupuncture can be beneficial for weight loss, it should be used in combination with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Always consult with a licensed acupuncture practitioner before beginning any acupuncture treatments for weight loss.
5. Promoting Restful Sleep - Sleep is essential because chronic pain can lead to weight gain and stress. Acupuncture has been found to support restful sleep and decrease insomnia.
If you are struggling with weight issues, acucpunture can help! We also offer food therapy and holistic health coaching!
