Health Brief

CONTROL YOUR APPETITE AND LOSE WEIGHT THROUGH ACUPUNCTURE

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The effectiveness of Acupuncture on weight loss was investigated in a series of studies.
Researchers wanted to determine if Acupuncture could be used to decrease the weight of patients with arthritis in order to reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints.

During the first study, both groups received Acupuncture treatment. The stomach and hunger points were used on the treatment group and sham ear points were used on the placebo group.

Results showed that the treatment group showed significant improvement in appetite control; no improvement occurred in the placebo group.

Another study was conducted utilizing the stomach and hunger points, but also included the Shen Men point which has an overall calming effect. Of the 61 people who participated, all were obese and put on a low calorie diet. 79% of those who were successful at following the low cart) diet had weight loss.

A third study was conducted on 19 obese patients with arthritis of the knee. These patients took part in a diet and exercise regimen and were treated with electroacupuncture, where low currents of electricity are sent to the needles.

Results showed that 89% of participants lost 5 to 10 kg following treatment.

Results of this study show that acupuncture treatment may be effective in controlling appetite, which makes losing weight an easier feat.

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SOURCE: American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 1995,-23 (I):15-25.