Acupuncture and Weight Loss: The Dynamic Duo!
Aug 13th, 2008 by Gail M. Davis
Acupuncture and weight loss are certainly becoming a controversial combination. Americans spend over 33 billion dollars every year on weight-related products and programs, and the failure rate is off the charts! Who can blame dieters for wanting healthy alternatives? Traditional methods certainly aren’t working. Acupuncture is becoming more popular since it offers no harmful side effects and no chance of addiction.
A 2002 National Health Review Survey stated that 8.2 million Americans reported using acupuncture treatments. Those statistics have surely grown significantly in the past six years. Acupuncture as a medical procedure began over 2,000 years ago. China is generally considered the authority in the field, although Korea and Japan use it quite extensively as well. Acupuncture uses long, thin, stainless steel needles, which are inserted into over 2,000 pressure points in the body.
So, what about this relationship between acupuncture and weight loss? Supporters believe that acupuncture is beneficial for losing weight because it increases the patient’s energy, making them want to exercise. It also lessens muscular pain, allowing the individual to continue with their workouts. Generally, it improves circulation, reduces stress, (and therefore cravings), and it increases metabolism.
One really exciting point is that Chinese researchers report that those who use acupuncture and weight loss are twice as successful as those who diet alone. In addition to all the other wonderful health benefits, acupuncture is also known to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
One negative aspect of acupuncture and weight loss is ear stapling. This procedure was developed in the United States and is considered ineffective and possibly dangerous. Two pressure points in the ear are targeted with ear stapling. The staples are left in the ear and sometimes dislodge or become infected. A certified acupuncturist would be a necessity when trying something this risky.
During acupuncture treatment most patients report feeling little or no discomfort. Some patients describe a warming sensation, a calming effect, or even a feeling of being energized. Obviously, the effects felt depend on the individual and the pressure points targeted.
Is acupuncture for you? If you’re ready to give it a try, follow these easy rules. First, check with your family physician. Find a reputable, certified acupuncturist. Decrease the number of calories you consume while you increase the number of calories you burn. Add cardio, strength training, and stretching to your routine. Be patient when it comes to results, but stay positive and focused on your goal!
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