Acupuncture to Lose Weight

Overview

Acupuncture is part of a system of medicine from China that dates back more than 5,000 years. It uses fine needles to facilitate the flow of energy, or qi (pronounced chee) throughout the body. Acupuncture may also be used to bring balance to the body and assist in weight loss.

History

The earliest records of acupuncture can be found in "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine," one of the oldest known texts. It was practiced by the Chinese as well as ancient Egyptians. Initially, carved stone, and later bamboo, were inserted into the skin. Today, acupuncturists use fine, hair-like metal needles. Oriental medicine (and acupuncture) was the main system of medicine in China until 1932, when Emperor Chiang Kai-shek introduced Western medicine. It was not until the 1960's, when the French began to study acupuncture, that it was introduced to westerners. Today, there are more than 8,000 licensed acupuncturists in the United States alone.

Method

The Chinese believe that all life forms have vital energy, or qi. According to the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, "energy [qi] flows along pathways in the human body that are related to the organs, the muscular system and nervous system." Disease and other health problems result when there is a disruption or imbalance in this vital life force. This imbalance may occur because of trauma, stress, environmental factors or even poor diet. In the case of obesity and weight loss the OMD (Oriental medical doctor) will seek to find the source of the imbalance, and correct it with the use of acupuncture, herbs and/or diet modification. Typically, for moderate weight loss, needles will be placed only in the ears. In severe cases or with addiction, needles may be placed around the mouth, stomach or other vital organs.

Effects

By stimulating the flow of energy, acupuncture may help to bring the body back into a state of balance, or homeostasis. As mentioned above, acupuncture is one method of treatment. Diet and lifestyle modification are also essential for weight loss. The OMD may use acupuncture to help curb the appetite or increase energy. Much research has been conducted regarding the effects of acupuncture on weight loss. A recent study done by the University of Adelaide in Australia concluded that frequent acupuncture treatments are an "effective method of appetite suppression which leads to weight loss." Although the National Institutes of Health state that more studies are warranted, there are a number of international studies that document the effectiveness of acupuncture for a variety of health related issues, including obesity.

Time Frame

Like most therapeutic methods, acupuncture is most beneficial after several treatments. The frequency of treatments will vary for each individual. The nature of the condition and how long it has been going on will determine the duration. It is important to discuss this with the acupuncturist or OMD. As the condition improves, fewer visits are required.

Misconceptions

Although needles are the main way acupuncturists stimulate qi, it is not as painful as one might expect. The needles are very fine, and inserted just below the surface of the skin. Additionally, there are other ways to tap into the meridians, as the pathways are called. Some therapists use electrical stimulation or massage. Many acupuncturists also employ heat with a technique called moxibustion. Dried herbs, usually Chinese mugwort, are burned either on a small platform or on the needle itself over the acu-point. Cupping, which uses suction, is another therapeutic method commonly used by acupuncturists. Talk to your health care practitioner if you have concerns about using needles.