Biomagnetic For Losing Weight

If you are part of the majority of adult Americans needing to lose weight, you have probably been tempted to try a far-fetched gimmick to achieve fast, effortless weight loss. But trying to lose weight is not like changing other lifestyle factors. For example, you can quit smoking and never look at another cigarette again. However, to lose weight, you cannot quit eating. This paradox causes irrational responses in some people. Merchants have been known to take advantage of this situation. Bio-magnetics may sound scientific but actually might be one of these counterfeit solutions.

History

Naturally magnetic stones called lodestones were discovered many centuries ago and incorporated into healing practices by Greeks as early as the third century A.D. Magnets have been used most commonly to relieve pain but also to treat sleeplessness, gout, baldness and even paralysis.

The Claims

Those marketing bio-magnetism claim that by simulating the earth's magnetic fields, magnets can put your body in its optimum position to heal itself with all of its systems running at their most ideal. Also, it is said that magnets increase blood circulation, which removes toxins and other contaminants from the body while increasing oxygen and other nutrients. These physiological changes are supposed to result in pain relief, fatigue reduction, fewer problems with digestion and improved sleep quality. Claims have been made that these changes will result in weight loss.

The Reality

According to a 2001 analysis published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, entitled "A historical perspective of the popular use of electric and magnetic therapy," solid scientific proof that bio-magnetism offers health benefits such as weight loss is lacking. People have believed that magnets have healing properties for centuries, but there is confusion even among supporters of bio-magnetism therapy. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggest that studies are incomplete because the strength of magnets vary. It also proposes that different types of pain responded incomparably, so that may also thwart clinical trials from producing accurate results. Nonetheless, numerous studies produce results that are inconclusive.

Warnings

While magnets have not been confirmed helpful, they have been shown to be safe. There are specific situations, however, where bio-magnetic therapy is to be avoided. Bio-magnetics are not to be used by persons utilizing a pacemaker, defibrillator or insulin pump, as the process may interfere with how these devices function. It is also advised that women that are or may be pregnant refrain from using magnetic therapy. Also, do not begin bio-magnetic therapy if you have a wound that has not healed.

Conclusion

Even many of the merchants selling devices that claim they aid weight loss through bio-magnetic therapy advise combining the magnets with diet and exercise. There really is no quick and easy way to skip the process of changing your lifestyle. To lose weight, you will need to change your habits to include more activity, more fruits and vegetables, adequate water and fiber, and smaller portions. If you do decide to incorporate bio-magnetic therapy into your other healthy behaviors, discuss it with your health care provider first.