Try Acupuncture and Weight Loss for Quick Results!

Could there be a more controversial issue in the diet community than acupuncture and weight loss? Americans alone spend over 33 billion dollars a year on weight loss programs and products. With the failure rate so high, is it any wonder that people are searching for healthy alternatives to common diets? With no side effects and no chance for addiction, acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular.

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.

So, are you ready to try acupuncture? If so, follow these simple guidelines to help you be more successful. First of all, check with your doctor before trying anything new. Find a reputable, certified acupuncturist. Decrease your caloric intake and choose highly nutritious foods. Increase your daily activity by adding cardio, strength training, and stretching to your workout schedule. Stay focused and positive, and be patient!