Is acupuncture really the next weight loss miracle? Find out here.

Let’s be real: losing weight isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be downright difficult and discouraging when it feels as though you’re doing everything right, yet the numbers on the scale just won’t budge. At times like these, it can be tempting to turn to alternative weight loss methods like acupuncture. But before you step up to get needled, it’s important to first assess exactly what acupuncture does, and how it can complement your efforts to lose weight.

How does acupuncture work?

According to Dr. Richard Tan, some suggest the Gate theory, which explains how acupuncture activates the nervous system and releases chemicals like endorphins that relieve pain. On the other hand, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners believe acupuncture helps clear stagnant Qi or blood, reducing swelling and pain.

Dr. Tan states that “it helps stimulates the release of your body chemicals to ease discomfort and correct imbalances from poor lifestyle habits. It involves no artificial chemicals or toxic metals and has no major side effects. This method is also compatible with most chronic disease medications, including those for high blood pressure or diabetes.”

How can acupuncture help one lose weight?

There aren’t any solid scientific studies showing that acupuncture directly leads to weight loss. In a small study with 80 obese patients, those who got body acupuncture for three to six months lost weight, but they also followed a low-calorie diet. “Weight loss has to be gradual,” says Dr. Tan. Acupuncture isn’t a miracle solution for losing weight, but it can be helpful when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Dr Tan lists the ways in which acupuncture can complement one’s efforts to lose weight below:

– Reducing anxiety which causes one to binge eat

– Releasing serotonin, which is attributed to be an anti-depressant, resulting in having a positive outlook to curb emotional eating

– Releasing dopamine to help reduce alcohol intake and calorie intake

– Suppressing appetite with the release of beta-endorphins and serotonin

– Increasing metabolism with the release of above-mentioned chemicals

– Reducing body aches and pain to allow the person to return to doing regular exercise

If you want to explore how acupuncture can aid in weight loss, consult a doctor or registered acupuncturist to create a personalized plan. Keep in mind that there are no instant solutions. Dr. Tan advises, “I usually suggest my patients have weekly or bi-weekly sessions, totaling 10 sessions. You should notice results starting from the fifth session.”

Written by:Shape Singapore