There is no single ‘magic bullet’ for losing weight. Any sensible attempt to lose, and maintain
a healthy weight include dietary changes, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications.
That being said, there are several ways by which acupuncture can be used effectively in
holistic weight-loss programs:
Physiologically the sensation of hunger is triggered by a hormone called ghrelin. Research
has shown that ghrelin levels increase during times of stress. This is thought to be a
physiological response designed to provide the body with energy to cope with stressful
situations. In the context of our busy modern lifestyle, this could mean anything from
preparing for exams, public speaking, demanding periods at work, or chronic stress. Regular
acupuncture treatment, especially in the early stages of one’s weight loss journey, may help
reduce stress and anxiety and therefore hunger and so facilitate an easier transition to the
newly adopted lifestyle.
Adjustment to the new dietary regime may be accompanied by temporary gastric discomfort
which can be managed with the help of acupuncture. For example, a systematic review of
randomized control trials found that acupuncture may be effective in reducing symptoms of
irritable bowels syndromes (IBS), such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea. Another
study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication for treating functional
dyspepsia, a condition characterized by indigestion and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
And finally, a healthier lifestyle adoption will require regular physical activity. Whether it is
pumping iron in the gym, long walks, yoga stretches, or a jog in the park, such activities,
especially at the beginning, as the body adjusts to the new regime can be followed by
muscular aches and pains, tendonitis, sore knees, and other acute Musculoskeletal
conditions. This is to be expected and the good news is that acupuncture can manage those
temporary conditions and facilitate the transition to a fitter, leaner, and healthier you!
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