Acupuncture and Weight Loss

A question I get asked a lot is:  “Can acupuncture help me lose weight?”  The answer is – yes!  Whether you are obese or just trying to lose a few pounds, acupuncture is very effective at controlling cravings for sugar and high fat foods that contribute to weight gain.  In Chinese medicine, a craving for sugar or other flavors such as salty chips or pizza is a sign of imbalance.  When these imbalances are corrected, you no longer have that intense craving for that food or flavor.  Acupuncture can curb addictive cravings for sugar using some of the same points used for smoking cessation and drug addiction. 

When overweight, many people can feel fatigue, depression, and loss of motivation.  This can prevent one from taking the steps needed to lose weight such as exercise and make better food choices.  Acupuncture can help with increasing energy levels, lifting depression, and regaining motivation to be more active.  If your weight gain is due to a medical problem and hormonal imbalance, Chinese medical diagnosis will be made for your particular pattern to address the imbalance

Acupuncture is not, however, a “magic pill”.  It involves a lot of commitment and hard work on your part to break through old habits.  It is a great tool to help you gain energy, motivation, and curb cravings that will help you get on the road to better health, as well as have guidance and support during that process.