With obesity becoming a more and more prevalent condition many people struggle to find ways to control their weight. Acupuncture may be useful in assisting weight loss or for other digestive problems.

Acupuncture for weight loss tends to focus on the Spleen and Stomach – these two organs are seen as doing the majority of the digestive actions in the body according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). By helping the Spleen and Stomach the digestion and metabolism of the patient can be improved to aid in weight loss.

Acupuncture points focussing on the Spleen and Stomach are mostly located on the legs and abdomen. Needles are usually inserted and left in place for about 20 minutes, during which time the patient can relax and unwind. Generally treatments are administered weekly or fortnightly depending on individual cases.

Other organs involved may be the Liver or Kidneys – particularly where faulty fluid metabolism is leading to accumulation of fluids or oedema.

Chinese Herbal Medicine may also be applicable to the patient and a broad range of herbal formulas could be prescribed.

As TCM is a holistic medicine the treatment usually also involves “life-style advice”, meaning the practitioner may have some suggestions regarding diet and exercise, or other aspects of lifestyle such as stress levels or sleeping habits.

TCM views food and diet in slightly different way to western medicine, and this could mean that the suggestions made about eating habits could be something other than what you might expect.

Acupuncture may also help to improve your general sense of well-being or raise your energy levels, to help motivate you to exercise and achieve your weight loss goals. It may reduce cravings and is a drug-free therapy to help you manage your weight.