The working mechanism behind acupuncture is that of balancing ‘Yin’ and ‘Yang’–the complementary yet opposite forces of life–actually results in optimum health.
The traditional Chinese belief and weight loss
According to this ancient Chinese medical practice, if you have been battling excess weight, the imbalance in the body might have something to do with it. While it is a Chinese practice, a lot of studies have found that it does work to heal certain conditions, including weight loss. Ancient Chinese teachings also believe that the imbalance in the body may also have a lot to do with malfunctioning of certain body mechanisms, including:
1. Spleen
2. Kidney
3. Thyroid gland
4. Endocrine system
5. Liver
A lot of experts believe that this age-old belief actually channelises the neuroscience to manage pain and treat various conditions. Those who practice acupuncture believe that it impacts several factors that drive weight loss, including lowering stress, increasing metabolism and even reducing appetite.
We list down some of the most common body parts which are targeted in acupuncture in order to lose weight:
1. Ear Stapling
Yes, poking needles to certain points of the ear is considered an effective solution for weight loss by many acupuncture practitioners. The reason behind the same is manipulating a set of points on the ears to control food cravings.
Apart from weight loss, ear acupuncture can also be used for getting rid of drug and tobacco addiction.
2. Kidney and Endocrine system
These areas are targeted to treat water retention and balance the hormonal levels in the body.
3. Spleen and Thyroid gland
Acupuncture experts target these body parts to take care of the sugar levels in the body which have gone haywire.
4. Ovary glands
Another important aspect of weight loss is to understand whether it is happening because of either menopause or PMS. Acupuncture experts target the ovary and adrenal glands to treat the weight gain caused by any of the above-mentioned causes.
The science behind acupuncture
There have been a lot of studies which suggest that acupuncture therapy helps in shedding some kilos. According to a study published in Medical Acupuncture, ear stapling (acupuncture) in combination with a 15-minute walk and 2,000 calorie diet per day, actually helped in losing some weight.
The study was conducted on 20 overweight women and the results were shocking, to say the least. The participants who enrolled in a 15-minute ear acupuncture session lost around 4.6 kilos on an average. While on the other hand, those who did not undergo any session lost an average of 1.3 kilos. Additionally, the volunteers who underwent ear stapling said to have experienced a drop in appetite as well.
A word of caution
The procedure, however, must be done by a professional acupuncturist. Otherwise, the side-effects of a badly done acupuncture process can be really ghastly. It is important that the needles are clean and sterilised and the practitioner is well-trained and experienced.
Additionally, you must also ensure that the acupuncturist you have chosen has a valid license. Some of the side-effects of a wrongly done acupuncture procedure can be a severe infection, soreness in the muscles and even punctured organs.
What you should know before scheduling your first acupuncture appointment
First things first, even though acupuncture involves solid, metal needles, be rest assured that the size of the same is incredibly fine (roughly the size of your hair).
Secondly, the needles are also known to have rough edges so that they do not cut through your skin. Many certified acupuncture experts insist on the fact that this treatment does not hurt, contrary to popular misconceptions. Although, you might feel slight tingling or sensations during your treatment.
However, it all boils down to your body’s sensitivity and tolerance towards pain. Many a time, a person might not even feel the needle being inserted in his/her body till the time it has reached the desired depth to activate the intended point. You may feel dull, throbbing sensation over the spot which conveys that the treatment is working.
Even if you feel a sharp, stabbing pain when the needles are inserted, it should not last more than a couple of seconds.
The takeaway
While there is certainly no harm in trying this age-old Chinese remedy for weight loss and other ailments, we strongly suggest proceeding with caution. One of the reasons for the same is that there is not a lot of research conducted which tilts in the favour of weight loss with the help of acupuncture. Infact, the result may also be influenced by a person’s own beliefs and set mindset.
As of now the reports of the studies conducted are not clear enough to suggest whether it is merely a placebo effect or the acupuncture treatment is actually effective for weight loss.
If you are still willing to try acupuncture to shed a kilo or two, it is advisable to combine the same with proper physical exercise and diet intake. Keep a tab on your calories and exercise better decisions.
Disclaimer: This article is not a substitute for qualified medical advice. Please consult your trusted medical professional for further information.
