According to the Centers for Disease Control latest statistics, the national prevalence of obesity is 42.4% and obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 Diabetes, and certain types of cancer are some of the leading causes of preventable and premature death in the United States.
In several studies over the last five years, researchers have shown patients who receive regular acupuncture treatments see faster weight loss results than those who do not. In each case, the acupuncture treatments were combined with dietary and lifestyle changes also aimed at weight loss, illustrating that acupuncture is an effective supplement to weight loss programs.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, obesity is often linked to energy or Qi stagnation (pronounced “chee”), especially around the area of the stomach and spleen. TCM teaches that the energy imbalance caused by stomach and spleen qi stagnation affects digestion, the function of the pancreas, and the insulin-glucagon pathway. Each of these mechanisms is an important part of our body’s ability to take in nutrients, cycle them through our body, and get rid of toxins and waste.
There are many acupuncture points, and combinations of points, that have proven successful for people who are on their weight loss journey. There are also a number of herbal formulas that support weight loss. It all depends on the particular symptoms being exhibited, one’s constitution, and other body-type characteristics that help together paint a complete diagnostic picture in TCM.
Clinical research has shown acupuncture treatments have the ability to improve physical well-being and promote healthy weight loss. The researchers noted that they saw the most success when the selected acupuncture points were based on each patient’s individual needs and presenting TCM patterns, emphasizing the importance of having a customized treatment plan.
In TCM, any dietary or lifestyle change is recommended based on underlying causes, not surface symptoms, and with a well-rounded view of your health in mind. At Ashley Wren Acupuncture, we will never analyze your health solely based on the reading of a bathroom scale. We will look at the whole picture to create a sustainable and holistic approach to support your weight loss journey.
Contact us today to see how TCM can help you achieve your goal of a healthier and happier lifestyle.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4877795/; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6022277/
