This weeks guest post is from acupuncturist Helen at St George Health.
Acupuncture can help the metabolism as it becomes sluggish and the body produces dampness which stops it from working effectively. Stress plays a major part and can work hand in hand with weight issues (causing thyroid and other autoimmune issues ).
Weight loss
Fortunately, you can use medical acupuncture for weight loss.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles at specific body points or “energy pathways.” The inserted needles act to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel good” hormones. This can create a calming, relaxing effect, which counteracts the need for excessive eating brought about by increased stress, frustration or anxiety. In this respect, acupuncture can calm those so afflicted and help them lose weight without resorting to drugs.
Several studies have shown that when acupuncture is combined with traditional methods of weight loss, patients lose more weight. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the belief is that excessive weight gains are caused mainly by an imbalance in the body due to a malfunction of the spleen and liver organ systems. Skilled acupuncture practitioners will zero in on specific body areas to effect weight loss. Among these are the endocrine system and kidneys, which are addressed to treat water retention and to stimulate nerve and hormonal rebalance. The spleen and thyroid gland are also targeted to effect sugar and hormonal rebalancing. Finally, the adrenal and ovary glands are included to treat weight gain due to menopause or Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some people notice the effects of acupuncture fairly quickly and only require treatments every other week.
Another Chinese acupuncture practice for losing weight is ear stapling. This involves manipulating points on the ear to control food cravings. Auricular acupuncture has been used successfully to help cigarette smokers and heroin addicts kick their drug habits. When properly administered by a qualified acupuncturist, this technique may help some people lose weight.
To find out more about how acupuncture can help you, visit www.stgeorgehealth.com.au. Mention KMJ group fitness and receive 10% off.
