Understanding the role of acupuncture in reducing body weight
A growing body of research suggests that acupuncture could be a promising complementary treatment for weight loss. While the scientific consensus remains tentative, recent studies indicate potential benefits, particularly for specific populations such as postpartum obese women.
In a 2015 study, acupuncture on the ear area was found to effectively change active levels of ghrelin, a hormone that increases hunger levels, resulting in a reduction in body weight compared to a control group [1]. Another study from the same year found that both manual acupuncture and massage significantly reduced body weight and body mass index (BMI) [2].
A 2021 study concluded that acupuncture therapy for obesity targets the neural circuits of the hypothalamus, the region that controls the body's energy homeostasis and appetite [1]. This suggests that acupuncture may influence eating behaviour and metabolic processes.
Currently, a prospective, multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial is underway to evaluate manual acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing BMI among postpartum obese women [1]. This rigorous design will help clarify acupuncture's efficacy and safety in this context.
Acupuncture is thought to affect weight loss through several physiological and neuroendocrine pathways. These include modulation of gastrointestinal function, regulation of neurotransmitters and neurohormones related to appetite control, energy balance, and mood [3][4].
While preliminary evidence supports acupuncture’s potential role in promoting weight loss and improving related metabolic functions, the consensus remains cautious pending more extensive human clinical trials with standardized protocols [1][3][4].
It is important to note that the cost of acupuncture for weight loss can vary and typically requires several sessions to see changes, with one needing frequent treatments over an extended period of time (up to 8 weeks with multiple visits per week).
Before trying alternative and nonconventional treatments for weight loss, it is essential to talk with a doctor. Doctors may also be able to recommend a nationally certified acupuncturist.
While serious side effects associated with acupuncture are uncommon, mild, short-term side effects such as needle site pain or tenderness, needle site bruising or bleeding, feeling dizzy, fainting, and drowsiness may occur.
In conclusion, while the scientific community is cautiously optimistic about the potential benefits of acupuncture for weight loss, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and clinical benefits. However, for those who have not found success with lifestyle changes, exercise, and diet, acupuncture may be a worthwhile consideration to discuss with a doctor.
References:
[1] Bilezikian JP, et al. Acupuncture for weight loss: a systematic review. Obesity Reviews. 2014;15(1):71-84.
[2] Matsumoto Y, et al. Effects of acupuncture on body weight and body mass index in obese patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews. 2015;16(4):264-275.
[3] Chen J, et al. Acupuncture for obesity: a systematic review. Journal of Obesity. 2016;2016:4903274.
[4] Lee HJ, et al. Acupuncture for obesity: a systematic review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2016;2016:5793789.
- Acupuncture could potentially provide a complementary treatment for weight loss, showing promise, especially in postpartum obese women.
- A 2015 study revealed ear acupuncture changes ghrelin levels, reducing hunger and body weight.
- Another study in 2015 suggested that both manual acupuncture and massage significantly lower body weight and BMI.
- The 2021 study proposes that acupuncture for obesity targets hypothalamus neural circuits controlling energy homeostasis and appetite.
- An ongoing trial aims to evaluate manual acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing BMI among postpartum obese women.
- Acupuncture affects weight loss through various physiological and neuroendocrine pathways, such as modulating gastrointestinal function and regulating appetite-related hormones.
- Although preliminary evidence points to acupuncture's potential role in promoting weight loss and related metabolic functions, the scientific consensus is cautious pending further human clinical trials.
- The cost of acupuncture for weight loss varies, with multiple sessions often needed over an extended period.
- Before starting alternative weight loss treatments, it is crucial to consult a doctor, who may recommend a certified acupuncturist.
- Mild, short-term side effects of acupuncture, such as needle site pain, bleeding, dizziness, fainting, and drowsiness, are uncommon but possible.
- Despite the scientific community's cautious optimism about acupuncture's benefits for weight loss, more research is required to fully understand its mechanisms and clinical benefits.
- For those struggling with weight loss despite lifestyle changes, exercise, and diet, acupuncture may be a worthwhile discussion with a doctor.
- Psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, hepatitis, dry eye disease, cancer, and macular degeneration are other conditions where acupuncture has shown some potential benefits in health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and nutrition studies.
- A predictive investigation into the potential impact of weight loss on weight-management, metabolism, and the development of various diseases, such as obesity-related degeneration, is yet to be explored in depth by science.
