Weight Loss, Specific to You

Weight Loss, Specific to Youby Lisa Marcantonio, (L.Ac., MSOM, Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM), Certified Western Herbalist

Here at the Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder, Inc. (ACOB) we wish you the best in the New Year! We are excited to support you in your resolutions and personal goals. If one of your goals for 2014 is weight loss, you may be surprised to learn that acupuncture is now recognized, even by Dr. Oz, as a very successful way to achieve weight control. In fact, it can be your best friend, and the motivating force you need to stay on track!

The guiding principles of acupuncture for weight loss are vast: it curbs your appetite, quells cravings, regulates blood sugar, boosts the metabolism, improves digestion and regulates obesity related hormones. It also releases endorphins, otherwise known as “the feel good” hormones, creating a calming effect in the body. Acupuncture is said to “course the body, move the qi, and allow what is stagnant to flow.” At the ACOB, we administer protocols done at some of the top spas across the country. We add additional acupuncture points specific to your needs.

Weight Control: The Biology The rationale for using acupuncture for weight control is based on the premise that weight gain could be the result of disturbed energy flow to and from regulating centers of the brain. In a study from 1993 entitled, “Effect of acupuncture on weight loss evaluated by adrenal function,” it states: “Acupuncture treatments not only affected weight loss but also enhanced functioning of the two systems suggesting that the effect of acupuncture on weight loss may be produced by enhancing the functions of both the sympathetic-adrenal system and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal system.” The hypothalamus is responsible for maintaining “homeostasis” or functional balance that allows the body to run like a finely tuned instrument. It is the body’s dispatch center that regulates hormones and neurochemicals, and helps to control body temperature, circadian rhythm, thirst, and hunger.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach Weight gain is a multifaceted challenge with many contributing factors: hormonal imbalances, slowed metabolism, stress, poor nutrition, physical injuries, fatigue, disease, emotional eating (due to sadness, worry¸ anger, anxiety, and let’s not forget, boredom!) and menopausal changes. Fad diets do not address the complexities of each individual. The individual symptoms listed above, make up patterns in Chinese medicine and are the starting point for customizing a treatment plan specific to you. By choosing empirical points for weight loss and points that speak to your particular pattern, your goals can and will be achieved!

In TCM, weight gain is caused by an imbalance in the Spleen and Liver. The Spleen is responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system. A disharmony in the Spleen will cause fatigue, loose stools, slowed metabolism, water retention and a feeling of heaviness. The Liver produces many chemicals critical for digestion, processing nutrients and balancing fats. We all know that life and its inevitable challenges can upset us emotionally, so too can it upset us physically. By stressing out our Liver energy, we stress out our mind, frequently finding solace in food. The philosophical functions assigned to each organ in Chinese medicine set up the paradigms for proper treatment protocols. In Chinese medicine, the Liver is in charge of the free flow of qi and blood, harmonizing digestion, emotions, the production of bile, and for women – menstruation. How Was Your Workout Today? Look at acupuncture the same way you would a gym workout – with a little commitment and consistency, you will be on your way to having the life you want. When addressing weight loss, a course of treatment (six to ten sessions), two times per week, is recommended. Along with your acupuncture treatments, Chinese dietary therapy and exercise suggestions will be offered. Herbal formulas can also be prescribed to help you regain balance and move you swiftly towards health.

We share strong ties to the community and are happy to recommend doctors, dieticians, trainers, counselors, and physical therapist to help you reach your weight loss goals!

It is a simple statement of fact: When the body is healthy, the mind can be happy.

We look forward to helping you on your path towards health and happiness!

Lisa Marcantonio, L.Ac.

Appointments can be made through our front desk at 303-665-5515 or via are on-line scheduling system at http://www.acupunctureclinicofboulder.com.