Practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture is an age-old practice of inserting thin needles to stimulate the flow of vital energy or Chi in the human body. Over the past 40 years, this form of alternative treatment has gained huge popularity. With a steady increase in the number of people resorting to acupuncture treatments for pain relief, researchers are now engaged in comprehending the true potential of this alternative form of treatment. You can find clinics that provide sessions in acupuncture for weight loss in Houston, TX.

Losing weight is never an easy task, no matter what you do. Alternative weight loss methods such as acupuncture help in weight loss gradually. It stimulates the energy or Chi of the body and reverses the factors that lead to obesity. It works by reducing appetite, lowering stress, and increasing metabolism. Based on the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, weight gain is due to an imbalance of the life forces- yin and yang in the body. This can further lead to other illnesses and maladies.

Malfunctioning of various organs of the body such as the thyroid gland, kidney, liver, and spleen can lead to obesity. Therefore, an acupuncturist targets these areas during the weight loss treatment.

Another area that the acupuncturist focuses for a weight loss treatment is the ear. According to the Chinese beliefs, it is possible to control food cravings by manipulating certain points on the ear.

How Acupuncture Facilitates Weight Loss?

Studies reveal that when there is a combination of acupuncture and traditional weight loss treatments, you can experience positive results. Acupuncture is an effective method to lose weight and maintain a healthy body and mind. The treatment involves the insertion of fine sterile needles at specific points or locations on the body that are energy pathways. With the insertion of these needles, the body is stimulated and releases endorphins or the so-called happiness hormones.

Stress is one of the major factors that contribute to an imbalance in the body, which leads to illnesses. When the body releases endorphins, it creates a calming and relaxing effect, which negates the need to binge eat to feel good. Depression and anxiety lead to obesity as the person tends to consume carbohydrates and sugary foodstuffs. This, in turn, causes weight gain. It is more or less a vicious cycle.

Ear acupuncture is one method, which the acupuncturist uses to manipulate points on the ear. This technique helps to control food cravings. However, a well-qualified acupuncturist must administer it to avoid complications. A recent survey reveals that a well-balanced low-calorie diet, light exercises, and ear acupuncture proved beneficial in weight loss. Most of the patients experienced a decrease in appetite after ear acupuncture sessions. Experts believe that there are no short cuts or quick fixes. Doctors prescribe completion of 10 sessions for best results.

Effects of Acupuncture on the Nervous System

Acupuncturists also believe that this form of treatment has a positive effect on the nervous system, which facilitates weight loss. Acupuncture can restore the natural balance of the human body by blocking the release of harmful neurochemicals. It also helps to release endorphins that reduce stress and anxiety. Therefore, the urge to overeat no longer exists.

It is important to note that a licensed and qualified healthcare practitioner must administer acupuncture treatment. Some of the potential side effects of administering acupuncture incorrectly include soreness, muscle spasms, and exhaustion. These side effects are subjective-some people might experience it while some might not. Improper insertion of needles can also lead to organ puncture.

People who are on blood thinning medications or suffering from bleeding disorders must consult a doctor before availing acupuncture treatments. Pregnant women must also seek the advice of a doctor or medical expert before resorting to acupuncture to treat childbirth anxiety, back pain, and so forth.

Bottom line is acupuncture in Houston can help you lose weight when there is a combination of the treatment along with low-calorie diet and mild exercises. Acupuncture is a complementary form of treatment that works well when administered effectively and professionally.