Auricular acupuncture means using acupuncture points on the ears. It can be a very helpful part of an overall weight loss plan. Like any plan of this type, the person must also be dedicated to wanting to lose weight. Healthy weight loss requires commitment as well as a well-rounded approach including diet and exercise.
Theory
The acupuncture points used to help with weight loss aid in dealing with the stress and anxiety that can trigger overeating. They can also help to reduce cravings. In addition, part of the focus of the treatment will be on helping to get the digestive system into balance. For example, there are points to help the metabolism to function properly, for food to be digested properly and nutrients to be assimilated.
Treatment Approach
The points that will be chosen will depend on the individual. Although some points are generally used for everyone, the acupuncturist will make a treatment plan based on your body and what is determined to be the reason for your difficulty in losing weight. In order to do this, the acupuncturist will perform a complete intake on your first visit to come up with a diagnosis using Chinese medical theory.
Points Used
Among the auricular points that are frequently used for weight loss are Mouth, Hunger, Stomach and Lung. All of these can help with appetite control and dysfunctional eating habits. Shenmen is used to calm all types of anxiety. Thyroid will be used for a metabolism that is not functioning properly. Spleen may be used for regulating hormones and problems with sugar imbalance. Other points on the body will often be used for regulating the digestion and calming. After the acupuncture treatment, ear seeds will be put on points such as Shenmen and Hunger so that the patient can press on them between visits as needed. This can also help to reduce cravings.
Length of Treatment
The length of time the patient will need treatment depends on factors such as the amount of weight to lose and the person's commitment to a weight loss program. If the amount of weight to lose is small, then the treatments might be done twice a week. If the amount to lose is large, then even daily treatments at the very beginning might be recommended. After the first week, this can then be reduced gradually until the patient is coming twice a week. Frequency of treatments can further be reduced when the patient is satisfied with the results.
Additional Strategies
As with all weight loss programs, a healthy diet and regular exercise are also important. Chinese medicine has its own view on nutrition and your acupuncturist may make recommendations based on these theories to aid in losing weight. In addition, there are herbs that can be taken to help to improve the functioning of the digestive system.
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