4 advantages acupuncture can provide to those trying to lose weight

Acupuncture is a healing practice that originated in China over 3,000 years ago. People have known about the many health benefits of acupuncture for a long time, but it hasn’t received much attention in clinical studies until recently. Acupuncture has proven to be an effective treatment for weight loss and other conditions including pain conditions, seasonal allergies, asthma and more. 

During acupuncture sessions, the practitioner inserts thin stainless steel needles at specific points that stimulate the central nervous system. Most people don’t feel pain after the needles are inserted. In fact, many people say acupuncture helps them get into a deep state of relaxation.

In this blog post, we’ll share four advantages of acupuncture for those trying to lose weight. 

4 advantages of acupuncture for weight loss

According to Chinese medicine, acupuncture works by restoring the flow and balance of qi or chi, which is the body’s vital energy. When blockages are cleared and a person’s qi can move freely, certain biological processes associated with obesity are reversed. Acupuncture helps regulate metabolism, the mechanisms that cause you to feel hunger, and digestion. The reduction in stress also helps reduce overeating or binge eating.

The following are four advantages of acupuncture for those trying to lose weight:

• Regulating the endocrine system — Hormones produced in different parts of the body are released into the bloodstream to signal to the brain when we need to eat. The hypothalamus is the part of the brain that processes these signals. Acupuncture reduces the production of hormones related to hunger and has direct effects on the hypothalamus.
• Regulating metabolism — Metabolism is how the body processes nutrients, fats and sugars. Acupuncture helps keep these processes in balance so these substances are absorbed or flushed out as needed.
• Reducing oxidative stress — Free radicals are unstable cells that steal electrons from other cells to maintain balance. When the body has too many free radicals, the damage can increase the risk of conditions like cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Acupuncture helps the body keep free radicals in check.
• Promoting digestion — Acupuncture helps improve many aspects of gut function so food is digested properly. It helps food move through the digestive tract at the right pace, and it helps reduce problems like constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

Acupuncture is most helpful for weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and exercise. The doctors of acupuncture and other professionals on our staff can help you create a holistic plan for all your wellness goals. Along with acupuncture, we can provide an exercise program that fits your lifestyle and help you make adjustments to your diet that really pay off. At REPAIR SI, we know our patients are more likely to stick to their treatment plan when healthy choices are balanced with relaxation and fun. 

Are you ready to try a new approach to weight loss? Let’s talk about your wellness goals and how we can help you achieve them faster. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.