Taking Care Of Myself Naturally

Can Acupuncture Really Help You Lose Weight?

by Amelia Graves

The idea that having needles inserted into your skin can help you lose weight might seem a little odd at first. But actually, acupuncture is a more powerful weight loss tool than you might think. It can help you lose weight in a few different ways, and it's generally very safe and painless. Here are the key ways in which acupuncture can prove helpful along your weight loss journey.

Reduced Stress

It's no secret that stress can cause you to gain weight or hold onto unwanted weight. When you are stressed out, your body makes more of a hormone called cortisol. When your cortisol levels are high, your body is more apt to store and hold onto fat. If you can lower your stress levels, your cortisol levels will fall, and you'll have an easier time dropping the weight. Acupuncture is great for reducing stress. The needles will re-direct the flow of energy through your body in a way that is relaxing. After your session, you should feel more at ease, and with repeated acupuncture treatments, your baseline stress levels should go down, which will help you lose weight.

Improved Mobility

Weight loss generally comes easier when you're able to exercise and be active. You may struggle to exercise comfortably or enough if you're struggling with soreness or stiffness somewhere in your body. Acupuncture can help relieve this soreness and stiffness by relieving pressure on various nerves. After a session, you may feel more motivated and able to do things like go for a run, attend a yoga class, or walk in the park. If you can make those activities a part of your normal routine, weight loss will come more easily.

Better Sleep

Sleep is important for weight loss. When you don't get enough sleep, your levels of stress hormones rise, which makes it harder to drop the pounds. You're also more likely to overeat when you're not well-rested. A good way to get better sleep is to see an acupuncturist. A session or two can relieve pressure on nerves related to sleep and also trigger the release of hormones involved in the sleep process. After a few nights of good rest, you can start your weight loss journey with greater confidence.

If you're struggling to lose weight, consider a couple of sessions with an acupuncturist. This one treatment can make a huge difference in the way your body reacts and drops the pounds. 

For more information about acupuncture, contact a local professional. 

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