The media is filled with fad diets. According to the hype, all you need to do is stop eating this, or drink that, or count these calories, and you will end up at the weight you want to be. Some of these diets even work reasonably well, in the short term. The trouble is that sticking to a fad diet over the long run is nearly impossible. In some cases, it can even be dangerous, as many of these do not provide a full complement of essential nutrients.
In reality, there is no magic formula for attaining your weight loss goals. Reaching and maintaining proper body weight is usually brought about through a trial and error system to find your personal optimal combination of diet, exercise, and healthy attitude. Each person’s body is different, and each case requires expertise in determining that individualized perfect balance. At Los Angeles’ Thumos Health Center, we pride ourselves in using herbal medicine and acupuncture to provide vital assistance with your journey towards achieving your desired weight loss.
How Acupuncture Assists in Weight Loss
Acupuncture is based on the Eastern cultural belief in Qi, the vitality or life force that flows through all living things. When it becomes blocked, as is common among those who are stressed, it loses its ability to heal, restore, and maintain the body. Acupuncture releases those blockages, allowing the Qi to flow freely.
When acupuncture and herbology work together in a gentle detox, the body releases built-up poisons that have accumulated from poor nutrition, stress, and other lifestyle factors. Once the toxins are gone and the Qi is flowing, the body begins to naturally crave healthier foods. Poor choices will make you feel heavy and drained, while nutritious foods keep you energized and relaxed.
Western studies show that acupuncture has a dramatic effect on many systems of the body, including the brain and central nervous system. Acupuncture appears to help regulate metabolism, causing a sort of reset that helps you burn calories more efficiently. It also improves liver functionality, helping you to more effectively use nutrients.
One of the most intriguing aspects of acupuncture and weight loss is that it appears to help curb cravings and minimize emotional eating. Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the feel-good brain chemicals associated with excitement and joy. In the aftermath of an endorphin flood, the body tends to relax into a sleepy, happy state that can last for days. This process can short-circuit the anxiety responses that tend to cause stress-based eating.
The Role of Herbology
Eastern medicine uses a variety of herbal preparations alongside acupuncture to promote health and optimize wellness. These powerful herbs have been used for centuries, and many have begun to earn the respect of Western doctors. Herbal weight-loss remedies are designed to enhance the natural functioning of such bodily organs as the spleen, liver, and intestines. Some play a detox role, helping your body naturally remove poisons, while others focus on optimizing functionality for the long term. Like Western medications, not all herbal remedies are right for all people. After a thorough health evaluation, we will help you select the herbal preparations that are best for you.
At Thumos Health Center, we recognize that each patient is an individual. Weight loss is a highly personal matter, and each person has different goals, challenges, and areas of concern. Besides acupuncture and herbology, we also incorporate nutritional and lifestyle counseling to design a long-term plan for weight loss and maintenance.
We strive to improve your overall health, not just the numbers on the scale. We believe in a comprehensive, integrative approach that includes the best techniques that both Eastern and Western medicine have to offer. We are happy to work with your Western physician to develop a harmonious plan for your ongoing health and wellness.
Located in Pacific Palisades, with satellite clinics in Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, and Beverly Hills, Thumos Health Center offers patients exceptional personalized care. If you are ready to take the first steps toward a more integrative approach to your health care, we invite you to phone (323) 372-5150 to schedule an appointment at any of our Los Angeles locations. Our highly knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.