Acupuncture and Weight Loss…yes, kind of
At least once a week in the clinic, I get the question “Can acupuncture help with weight loss?” My answer – “yes… kind of” – has a long caveat in front of it, so let’s break it down.
Here’s a view of both sides
Here’s the bad news – acupuncture alone will (most likely) not cause you to lose weight. Let’s be real, I wish I had the magic bullet for weight loss as much as anyone. But, it’s more important to me to be honest; and my honest truth is that acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help support you in your weight loss journey, not make the weight fall off for you. Unfortunately.
The good news is, though, that even though there’s no mystical, magical weight loss point, incorporating regular acupuncture into a weight loss regimen can make your journey easier, more comfortable and more enjoyable. Here’s how:
Keeping you comfortable during exercise
Most weight loss programs incorporate exercise, and we all know that increasing exercise usually means some type of discomfort – like achy knees, backs, feet and shoulders. Acupuncture can help you recover quickly from any of these exercise related aches and pains so that you can get back to the trail, treadmill or pool.
Optimizing your metabolism
Healthy metabolism comes from healthy digestion. Acupuncture can help regulate your digestion so you’re absorbing nutrients and eliminating wastes optimally, which will fuel your metabolism and support burning calories.
Managing stress and maintaining motivation
Weight loss can be stressful, with all the changes to your lifestyle, schedule and diet. Using acupuncture to manage stress can help decrease your cortisol, which can support weight loss. And decreased stress allows your motivation to stay present and focused on your weight loss goal.
Keeping cravings at bay
This is about as close to a magical weight loss point as it comes – there are protocols, specifically involving auricular (ear) acupuncture, that can help diminish cravings. To be clear, this won’t keep you from eating unhealthy food, but it does give you a little extra emotional and energetic support when it comes to making the choice not to eat unhealthy food.
Maryville Acupuncture and acupuncture for weight loss
So, there’s the skinny on how acupuncture can support you on your weight loss journey. Making changes is hard and we’re here to help.
If you’d like to talk more about how incorporating acupuncture can support a healthier you, don’t hesitate to reach out via email (info@maryvilleacupuncture.com), social media, or give us a call at 865.315.3157.