Acupuncture for Food Cravings
May 27th, 2009
Individuals experiencing food cravings, impulsive binge eating and weight gain are increasingly turning to lifestyle changes and natural therapies such as acupuncture.
Acupuncture treats food cravings by stimulating and increasing endorphin levels. The low endorphin levels many individuals experience due to dieting and hormonal imbalance can lead to the impulse to overeat and binge, resulting in weight gain rather than weight loss.
Food cravings, in relation to obesity, can result in the development of a wide range of adverse health conditions, such as high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, high cholesterol, diabetes, and sleep apnea, among others. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 97.1 million adults are overweight, and 39.8 million of those individuals also meet the criteria for obesity.
Acupuncture for food cravings involves selecting acupoints on the body which improve qi circulation and speed metabolism. Ear acupoints are selected which reduce food cravings, suppress appetite, promote digestion, and control compulsive eating.
High stress levels or stressful situations can also contribute to food cravings and binge eating. By increasing endorphin levels, acupuncture produces a calming effect. This effect counterbalances stress, thus reducing food cravings and the impulse to binge. Increased endorphin levels also improve digestive system functioning and can aid in lowering blood insulin and lipid levels, which results in less insulin conversion into body fat.
Ear acupoints are also effective in harmonizing absorption and metabolism. Acupuncture body points selected can improve the circulation of oxygen and blood with an emphasis on the stomach. By strengthening qi flow, acupuncture can manage uncontrollable appetite and reduce cravings.
Acupuncture treatment can correct the energy imbalances that often are underlying factors contributing to food cravings. Acupuncture nourishes related organs and can contribute to the healthy functioning of the digestive system. Acupuncture for food cravings may be combined with other traditional Chinese medicine modalities, including moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicine and dietary therapy.
For information about acupuncture for food cravings and weight management call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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