A growing trend has been creeping up on our bodies for some time now. According to a recent study 60 percent of population is overweight or obese. For most of us carrying a few extra pounds has become a ‘normal’. Our sedentary lifestyles, abundance of processed foods and chronic stress levels puts a strain on our body’s metabolism. A tried and true way to achieve a weight range is through eating well and exercising. However, in order to aid the natural weight loss process and to meet your weight loss goals more effectively, acupuncture can play a key role.
Acupuncture specifically designed for weight loss treatments is gaining traction and it’s easy to see why.
Weight gain is caused by several factors.
- Poor nutrition or over nutrition
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Hormonal imbalances
- Heightened cravings
- Impaired metabolism
Using holistic healing to tackle weight loss is a multi-faceted approach along with nutritional insights, lifestyle modifications and herbology—it is possible to sort out the cause of problem while addressing the pressing the need at the time of the treatment.
Acupuncture works by redirecting the energy flow circulating within the mind and body to achieve balance. Weight control is based on the idea that weight gain is the result of disturbed energy flow to and from the regulating center of the brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for maintaining functional balance that allows the body to run like a finely tuned instrument. The functions include regulating hormones, neurotransmitters, body temperature, circadian rhythm, hunger and thirst.
Of particular interest is the ability of acupuncture to influence fat storing hormones. Research measuring the effectiveness of acupuncture for weight loss found treatments increased ghrelin, a hormone that controls meal initiation and decreased leptin, the hormone that regulates fat storage and metabolism.
The guiding principal is that acupuncture can power up any other weight control strategy by curbing appetite, quelling cravings, boosting metabolism, improving digestion, regulating obesity-related hormones and enhancing the way nutrients are used. It also boosts liver function, the organ responsible for digestion and nutrient assimilation. In addition acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins helping to curb your urge to overeat while increasing tone in the smooth muscle of the stomach to help people know that they are full.
When combined with exercise and a healthy diet, acupuncture yields dramatic results. The calming effect of a relaxed state during a treatment helps deal with stress, builds up stronger will power and a faster metabolism.
Our recommendations for using holistic healing for weight loss.
Complete a full course of treatment – Acupuncture individually tailored for weight loss is best achieved with a minimum of 10 treatments delivered over a few weeks. Follow a comprehensive weight loss plan based on nutrient rich whole food choices coupled with regular exercise.