Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the use of thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body, which helps to restore balance and health. Although acupuncture is well-known for its therapeutic benefits, many individuals would be surprised to find out that it can also be used for slimming and weight loss as well. This effect comes about from the stimulation of your digestive (and drainage) system from acupuncture needles.
Excess weight is a growing concern globally, and TCM offers a unique perspective on its causes. Weight loss is often connected to caloric intake and physical activity, however, TCM looks at the body's energy balance and internal health.
Metabolism is the process of transforming food into energy. Our metabolism also influences how quickly we burn calories and store excess energy as fat, which in turn affects how easily we gain or lose weight. As we get older, our metabolic rate naturally slows down, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Acupuncture can help to stimulate and increase one’s metabolic rate. This helps to reduce the time taken to convert food into energy, allowing the body to use more fuel quickly and maximise the absorption of nutrients. This may help in healthy weight loss.
Acupuncture may help to regulate the body’s hormone levels, which naturally makes one feel less cravings. By lowering cravings, especially for fatty food, this can help in weight loss as the individual is less likely to overeat, thereby consuming less calories in the process.
Weight gain can be attributed to the imbalance of the liver, spleen, kidney, thyroid gland, and endocrine system, according to TCM. These organs regulate the absorption and excretion of fluids, minerals and nutrients in the body, and will cause over-absorption or under-excretion when they are out of balance. By stimulating and improving the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body, acupuncture clears the blockages of blood flow in the meridians of these digestive organs, leading to improved organ functions, and natural slimming and weight loss.
Weight gain can sometimes be attributed to an excess of saturated fats within the body. While saturated fats do have certain health benefits, an excessive buildup of saturated fat in the body has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, high blood cholesterol, and obesity. Acupuncture can help to dissolve the saturated fat in your body through removing Qi energy blockages and boosting your metabolism, potentially assisting in weight loss.
According to TCM, water retention can be attributed to poor circulation of your lymphatic system and excessive buildup of dampness, and can be a result of blockage of Qi (vital energy) or insufficient Qi (Qi deficiency) in the body. Acupuncture is able to clear these blockages and stimulate proper water circulation and flow, supporting slimming and weight loss.
According to TCM, every person has a natural body type that they are born with. The most healthy and ideal body is based on one’s distinct body constitution, and will differ from person to person. Through acupuncture and TCM, one can try achieving the ideal body type without excessive weight loss, malnutrition, or being underweight.
Ear acupuncture, or auricular acupuncture, is a specialised technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that may support weight loss by stimulating specific points on the ear. This method, which can use small beads instead of needles, has been observed to have a significant impact on weight management.
In a study in Japan, researchers wanted to expand on previous data to examine the weight loss effects of auricular acupuncture stimulation. This observational study used data from a pre-existing weight-loss programme involving 81 male Japanese participants, comparing their results to women who had undergone the same programme. The technique used small gold beads placed on six key areas of the ear under tape. Participants were also instructed to cut down on their food intake and were provided with nutritional supplements to prevent deficiencies. They visited the clinic twice a week for progress monitoring.
The study found that participants experienced an average weight loss and a reduction in waist circumference. Additionally, there was an improvement in the ratio of muscle mass to body fat, indicating that participants reduced overall fat while maintaining muscle mass. This suggests that ear acupuncture, by targeting key pressure points, maysupport weight loss and improve body composition.
Incorporating acupuncture into your weight loss regimen can provide a holistic approach to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight by addressing various physical and emotional factors contributing to weight gain.
Here’s how acupuncture may assist in weight loss:
Acupuncture for weight loss is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices and therapies. Compared to other types of weight loss methods such as dieting or exercise, it follows a more holistic approach that seeks to restore balance to your body. This may include examining your diet to include more TCM foods that can help with slimming or weight loss, and performing acupuncture to target specific Qi flows within your body.
Before starting any new treatment or diet regimen, it is essential to consult with our TCM physician to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health condition and weight loss goals.
Here's what our clients have to say about their experiences with our weight loss acupuncture therapy and holistic approach to slimming.
To know more about our acupuncture for slimming and weight loss programme, book an appointment with our TCM physician today.
Schedule your consultation by directly emailing us at ask@sinkangtcm.com.sg. Please note that bookings are subject to availability and confirmation. Our team will contact you via WhatsApp or phone within 48 hours to confirm your appointment. For bookings within the next 24 hours, we recommend calling the clinic directly.
Note: By submitting your appointment request, you agree to our terms and conditions.
Meet our team who is dedicated to helping you with your weight loss goals through personalised acupuncture care.
Expertise: Practising since 2009, Stephanie specialises in gentle acupuncture and moxibustion treatments that are widely used in internal medicine, gynaecology, and medical beauty therapy. She focuses on relieving pain in conditions such as lumbar sprains, shoulder and neck pain, and knee inflammation. Additionally, Stephanie utilises acupuncture for facial aesthetics and advocates for gastrointestinal health to address issues like bloating, weight loss, insomnia, and menstrual disorders. She emphasises the prevention of chronic diseases through lifestyle adjustments and traditional Chinese medicine, providing a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Years of Practice: 15
Credentials: Singapore College of TCM & Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine 新加坡中医学院 & 广州中医药大学
Potential side effects of acupuncture for weight loss or slimming are similar to those of a regular acupuncture session such as soreness, bruising, dizziness, skin rashes, or (very rarely) light bleeding from where the acupuncture needles have been placed. When performed by a skilled and professional therapist or physician in a safe and hygienic environment, the risk of these side effects is minimised.
One should note that one might potentially experience diarrhoea after acupuncture for weight loss, which is normal as this is the body’s natural reaction to expel excess dampness.
Before your acupuncture session for weight loss, ensure you have eaten a light meal to avoid dizziness. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for easy access to acupuncture points. It is also important to discuss any medical conditions, medications, or concerns with your practitioner so that they can tailor the treatment accordingly. Moreover, the practitioner will also guide you about pre-treatment steps, potential side effects, and lifestyle or dietary recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of your weight loss programme.
The frequency and number of sessions needed to see any effects differs from person to person, as TCM is a highly individualised treatment based on your own body’s condition. If you are intending to use acupuncture as a long-term slimming or weight loss management solution, you may need more regular treatment over time. Our physicians and therapists will discuss your weight loss goals and objectives when you visit our clinic for an initial consult before recommending an acupuncture treatment schedule.
Based on our past experience, most patients see a result within the next few days following the first session. We advise patients to come for at least four to six sessions to see prolonged results.
Sin Kang TCM has been a provider of affordable and holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments in Singapore for over 20 years. Our treatments are crafted by combining traditional TCM ingredients and methods and modern medical advancements, and our acupuncture for weight loss treatments is no different.
With more than 20 TCM Practitioners Board-certified physicians and therapists on our team, we are able to draw on a wealth of experience to craft a tailored and personalised acupuncture treatment regimen for you. Our treatment recommendations are always specific to the individual and take into consideration your body’s needs and conditions so that we can help you achieve your weight loss and slimming goals.
Book an appointment with us to find out more about our other different weight management programmes in Singapore, such as Lymphatic Drainage and Weight Loss Cupping.
Acupuncture can help you lose some weight. It supports your health by improving digestion, boosting metabolism, balancing hormones, reducing inflammation, and minimising cravings. Acupuncture promotes overall wellness, which supports weight management. However, its effectiveness varies among individuals. Consulting with a TCM physician can provide a tailored approach to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Individuals on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders like haemophilia should not generally consider TCM weight loss treatments. Moreover, pregnant women should also avoid acupuncture around the abdomen, as it may harm the foetus. However, to determine your individual condition, it is always recommended to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
Acupuncture for slimming may not work for everyone as individual responses vary. Its effectiveness depends on factors like overall health, lifestyle, and adherence to complementary treatments. Consulting with a TCM physician for acupuncture in Singapore can help determine its suitability for each person.
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