Acupuncture for Weight Loss

When acupuncture is being used to treat weight loss, the acupuncture points in the ear are generally used for both weight loss and the general detoxification of the body.  During treatment, the acupuncturist places five needles in each ear.  Out of these needles, four directly corresponds to specific organs in the body – the kidneys, lungs, nervous system, and liver.  The fifth needle is used for relaxation.  Once the acupuncture treatment starts, the body is stimulated to produce endorphins.  Endorphins are the “feel good chemicals” in the body help to combat the cravings for carbohydrates in the body, reduce the person’s appetite, and also helps with
withdrawal symptoms if weight loss is related to drug abuse (smoking, alcohol etc).

However, as well as the points in the ear, other points in the body can also be used.  This is why it is so important to have a detailed consultation with your acupuncturist.  The acupuncturist needs to know your eating habits in order to ascertain digestive problems as well as your appetite.  They will also check your pulses to determine your general energy states and measure the state of the stomach energy.  The tongue is also checked for cracks and yellow or white coatings.  These provide clues to the person’s condition and the reasons for gaining weight.

The needles are inserted into the body at certain points and these include:

• Mouth – this point relates to an impulsive eater that is also a chain smoker
• Stomach – this point relates to a person that is obese (eating even when the stomach is full)
• Lungs – this point relates to people that are addicted to food
• Endocrine – this point relates to those that gain weight due to water retention
• Shen-men – this point relates to the psychological reasons for anxiety, frustration and loneliness.
• Spleen – this point relates to hormonal and sugar imbalances.
• Kidney – this point relates to the nervous system and water retention.
• Thyroid – this point relates to a slow metabolism.