Is acupuncture and moxibustion effective in reducing weight

The effect of acupuncture and moxibustion on weight loss varies from person to person, and it needs to be comprehensively evaluated in combination with physique and operation norms. Acupuncture and moxibustion weight loss mainly plays its role by regulating the function of the spleen and stomach, inhibiting appetite, promoting metabolism and other mechanisms. The main influencing factors are acupuncture point selection, individual metabolic differences, and lifestyle compatibility.

1. Acupoint Selection

Commonly used weight loss acupoints include Zhongwan, Tianshu, Zusanli, etc., which regulate gastrointestinal peristalsis by stimulating specific meridians. For the damp heat type of spleen and stomach, the Fenglong acupoint is preferred, while for the liver stagnation and qi stagnation type, the Taichong acupoint is emphasized. Regular hospitals will select acupoints based on tongue and pulse differentiation, and improper operation in beauty salons may affect the efficacy.

II. Metabolic Differences

Patients with high basal metabolic rates are more likely to show results, and polycystic ovary syndrome patients with insulin resistance need to cooperate with exercise. The effect of acupuncture and moxibustion alone on hypothyroidism is limited, and it needs to be combined with drugs to treat endocrine abnormalities.

III. Dietary Coordination

During treatment, it is necessary to control a high sugar and high-fat diet, and maintain a daily calorie deficit of 300-500 calories. Overeating will counteract the regulatory effect of acupuncture and moxibustion on ghrelin hormone. It is suggested to record diet diary for synchronous management.

4. Operating Standards

Poor disinfection may lead to skin infections, and the use of electroacupuncture in non-medical institutions poses safety hazards. Regular traditional Chinese medicine practitioners will use disposable filiform needles to adjust the depth of insertion according to the thickness of the fat. The treatment usually requires 10-15 sessions.

V. Physical Factors

Phlegm dampness constitution has a faster effect, while yang deficiency constitution needs to be combined with moxibustion to warm yang. Obese individuals with a BMI exceeding 28 are recommended to undergo cupping, as excessive subcutaneous fat may affect the efficiency of needle sensation transmission.

During the weight loss period of acupuncture and moxibustion, aerobic exercise should be carried out three times a week, such as brisk walking, swimming and other moderate intensity exercises for 40 minutes. Avoid staying up late to maintain normal leptin secretion, and drink no less than 1500 milliliters of water per day. If symptoms such as dizziness or subcutaneous congestion occur, treatment should be stopped immediately. After the course of treatment, the effect should be maintained through diet and exercise. For those with a high probability of recurrence within six months, intermittent consolidation treatment is recommended. All operations should be carried out by licensed traditional Chinese medicine practitioners in medical institutions, and do not believe in exaggerated propaganda such as the seven day rapid weight loss.