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How Effective is Acupressure for Weight Loss?

A. Pasbjerg
A. Pasbjerg

Using acupressure for weight loss can be an effective way to speed up and improve results. There are numerous pressure points throughout the body that can be used to help control hunger, strengthen digestion, and regulate metabolism. By becoming familiar with these points and regularly using pressure and massage to stimulate them, one can improve the effectiveness of a weight loss program. The technique will not typically work alone, however; it should be used in conjunction with other weight loss strategies like healthy eating and exercise.

The first step to effectively use acupressure for weight loss is knowing the right pressure points to use. If the proper points are not stimulated, the technique will not work. Therefore, it is advisable for beginners to obtain a reflexology map and study which points to use, and also to consult with someone trained in acupressure. They can then learn the right spots to apply pressure to, such as the appetite suppression points at the ears, and the points for the spleen, liver, and large intestine, which help improve such things as metabolism, digestive health, and blood pressure.

Acupressure may help individuals achieve weight loss.
Acupressure may help individuals achieve weight loss.

Once all of the pressure points are identified, one can start to use acupressure for weight loss. Each point should be gently massaged and pressed to stimulate the necessary body systems. The technique should be done slowly so the person has time to experience the sensations and identify any particularly painful areas. Those that are extra sensitive or painful may need extra attention. Again, it is important to ensure the technique is being done properly to the correct pressure points, so consultation with a professional before starting my help guarantee the process is effective.

Acupressure points can be found on the hands to help relieve problems through out the body.
Acupressure points can be found on the hands to help relieve problems through out the body.

Although it can be an effective tool, acupressure for weight loss done alone will generally not yield results. It needs to be combined with other healthy lifestyle changes that also help reduce body fat. Practitioners should make sure they are eating a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats, and low in sugar, saturated fat, and processed foods. It is also important to avoid being sedentary and follow an exercise regime, ideally one that focuses both on aerobic and weight training. Other important habits that can help one lose weight more quickly and easily when combined with acupressure include drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and avoiding stress when possible.

Discussion Comments

Animandel

I worked with patients who regularly get acupuncture treatment to help them deal with pain in different parts of their bodies. I would say that 60 percent or more of them say that the treatments really help.

In my opinion, if you believe something is going to work then there is a better chance that it will work for you. When you go in with negative thoughts you will most likely come out with negative results. If you can't put faith in acupuncture for weight loss then you shouldn't even consider it.

Sporkasia

I have never tried acupuncture for weight loss and I don't know anyone who has, but if I had a weight problem and exercise and dieting were not getting the pounds off then I would give the acupuncture for weight loss procedures a chance.

The widespread use of acupuncture is relatively new in many parts of the world, but there is plenty of history to show that this treatment can be as beneficial as modern Western medicine.

Drentel

Acupuncture is not going to make you lose weight. Do any of you think losing weight is going to be easy? Sticking pins in your body has about as much chance of working as all of those weight loss pills advertised on TV.

Read the last paragraph in this article. That plainly tells you that acupuncture alone is not going to help you drop the pounds. Then the article goes on to talk about the importance of eating the right way and exercising. When you have tried all of the weight loss programs and weight loss supplements you should eventually learn that losing weight can be boiled down to two things.

You have to eat healthy and limit the calories you take in. And you have to exercise. If you believe in acupuncture then maybe you can use that to motivate you and keep you focused, but that's about the best it can do.

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    • Acupressure may help individuals achieve weight loss.
      By: forestpath
      Acupressure may help individuals achieve weight loss.
    • Acupressure points can be found on the hands to help relieve problems through out the body.
      By: Laurent Hamels
      Acupressure points can be found on the hands to help relieve problems through out the body.
    • Acupressure for weight loss needs to be combined with other healthy lifestyle changes that also help reduce body fat.
      By: Lsantilli
      Acupressure for weight loss needs to be combined with other healthy lifestyle changes that also help reduce body fat.
    • Learning reflexology can be beneficial for learning the pressure points associated required for weight loss.
      By: Mercedes Fittipaldi
      Learning reflexology can be beneficial for learning the pressure points associated required for weight loss.
    • Heart-healthy cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of any weight loss program.
      By: Antonioguillem
      Heart-healthy cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of any weight loss program.
    • Not getting enough sleep can make weight loss even harder for someone.
      By: Johan Larson
      Not getting enough sleep can make weight loss even harder for someone.