Effective Ways Acupuncture Can Help In Weight Loss

The widespread use of acupuncture for weight loss is the result of recent research developments showing that this approach can be successful for those trying to lose weight. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice in traditional medicine that involved inserting many thin needles into very specific points on the body. These needles are placed in order to stimulate key nerves in the body that regulate energy and metabolism, as well as numerous other factors that can affect your health.

While acupuncture treatments are used all over the body, to prevent or treat countless health conditions, for weight loss, acupuncture needles are primarily used on mouth, stomach, thyroid, spleen and endocrine glands, as well as the lungs and kidneys. The acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin about 1/4 of an inch deep, up to 1/2 an inch, depending on the style of acupuncture and the desired effects. The Chinese believed that this practice would help to improve the flow of Qi (energy) through the body, and while their understanding of the nervous system was rudimentary, that is essentially what acupuncture does.

How Does Acupuncture Help In Weight Loss?

Acupuncture can help with weight loss by regulating hormone production, improving the metabolism, optimizing digestion, reducing inflammation, suppressing the appetite, lessening water retention and optimizing other bodily functions that are related to obesity and weight loss.

Reduces Appetite

Leptin and ghrelin are the hunger hormones in the body; ghrelin tells the body that it is hungry, while leptin tells the body that it is full. Acupuncture can manipulate the levels of these hormones to reduce your appetite and curb your overeating and snacking habits.

Improves Digestion

Using stomach and kidney acupuncture points, it is possible to improve the functioning of the digestive system, and even increase the amount of nutrients that are taken in by the body. By preventing slow digestion and improving gut health, you can relieve constipation, bloating and other gastrointestinal issues that may keep your sedentary or lead to fat deposition.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation or tension in the gut, muscles and other tissues of the body can slow down the metabolism, put strain on the immune system, and even impact heart health and digestion. By relieving tension and regulating the immune response of the body, acupuncture for weight loss can lower your levels of oxidation stress and optimize your body for weight loss.