VIEW BROCHURE

I-Wrap is an infrared body wrap system with true targeted fat loss results, burning up to 900-1,400 calories per session. Click here for more info on the I-Wrap system. For an appointment, contact us.

Weight Control & Chinese Medicine

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the root of excess weight is an imbalance within the body caused by malfunctioning of the spleen, kidney, and liver organ systems. In Chinese Medicine the spleen is responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system, ensuring that the food we eat is transformed into Qi—or energy—that is the vital substance of life. Disharmony of the spleen will display itself with symptoms such as fatigue, slow metabolism, water retention, and feeling of heaviness in the body.

In addition, the kidney energy is the root of all the energy in the body. When the kidneys become deficient the body may feel sluggish, fatigued, and weight gain may ensue. In this case, acupuncture and Chinese herbs are used to boost the kidney energy to assist in weight loss.

The liver’s job is to keep the flow of your body’s Qi and blood (as well as your emotions) running smoothly. Our modern, fast-paced lifestyle and chronic stress can negatively impact the liver’s ability to function properly and smoothly. This can cause the spleen and digestive system to function poorly, decreasing the metabolism. Liver disharmony can also cause some of the "triggers" that lead to cravings and compulsive eating.

From a TCM perspective, the acupuncture points, foods, and herbs that are chosen to assist with weight loss directly influence the Qi of the spleen, kidneys, and liver systems to treat the root imbalances that are causing the weight gain.

Acupuncture is an adjunct therapy. It is not a wonder cure in the treatment of weight control. However, acupuncture is effective in making it easier to lose and maintain that loss if the patient is willing to change their lifestyle. In order to live a healthy, life while getting the most out of the course of treatment, patients must make changes in regards to diet and exercise.

From a Western perspective, acupuncture and TCM have been shown to have an effect on the function of the nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, food cravings, and metabolism. All of which can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.

A growing body of research supports the use of acupuncture and Asian medicine in weight loss:

• A 2003 study published in The Journal of Medical Acupuncture found that participants receiving acupuncture lost more than three times more weight than the control group.
• In a study conducted by the University of Adelaide in Australia in 1998, 95 percent of the participants receiving electro-stimulation on acupuncture points reported appetite suppression. The results showed that the acupuncture group was more likely to experience a reduced appetite and to lose weight than the control group.
• The beauty of acupuncture is that each treatment is catered to the needs of the individual patient. Acupuncture points on the body will be chosen for overall well being with the objective of increasing circulation of the blood and Qi (stimulating the metabolism) and calming the nervous system. Treatments encourage healthy and safe weight loss by providing guidance and education about diet, curb cravings, detox the body, and increase energy. All these factors promote better success while working towards weight loss goals.