Acupuncture and Weight Loss: The Dynamic Duo!

Acupuncture and weight loss are certainly becoming a controversial combination. Americans spend over 33 billion dollars every year on weight-related products and programs, and the failure rate is off the charts! Who can blame dieters for wanting healthy alternatives? Traditional methods certainly aren't working. Acupuncture is becoming more popular since it offers no harmful side effects and no chance of addiction.

While used extensively in Korea and Japan, China is generally looked upon as the authority in this field. Acupuncture uses long, thin, stainless steel needles, which are inserted into over 2,000 pressure points in the body. Acupuncture as a medical procedure began over 2,000 years ago, but its popularity in mainstream society is relatively new. A 2002 National Health Review Survey stated that 8.2 million Americans reported using acupuncture treatments.

Why are acupuncture and weight loss being combined? According to supporters of acupuncture, it is beneficial to weight loss because it improves energy levels, leaving many dieters feeling able to exercise. It also decreases muscle pain, allowing for quicker recoveries from workouts. Acupuncture is known to increase metabolism, reduce stress, and improve circulation, all things important to dieters.

Studies also show that acupuncture can decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Chinese researchers even reported that test subjects who used acupuncture lost twice as much weight as patients that used diet alone.

Ear stapling has given acupuncture and weight loss some recent negative publicity. Developed in the United States, this procedure pinpoints two pressure points in the ear, using a staple. The staple remains in the ear for a period of time, but sometimes dislodges itself or becomes infected, causing health problems. One would want to consult a certified acupuncturist before trying this procedure.

Most acupuncture patients feel little or no discomfort. Some describe a warming sense or a calming effect, or even an energized feeling. The treated pressure points and the individuals involved would dictate the sensations.

If you're ready to give acupuncture a try, follow these easy guidelines to ensure success. Check with your family doctor first and find a reputable, certified acupuncturist. Select highly nutritious foods for your diet and decrease your caloric intake. Increase your caloric expenditure by adding cardio exercise to your routine. Be patient, but stay focused and positive!

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Gail M. Davis offers more information about acupuncture and weight loss along with numerous other weight-related topics, on her website. Find easy weight loss tips , healthy recipes, and much more to enable you reach your weight loss goals.

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