Guest Author - Lisa Shea

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique dating back 2,000 years. Studies are beginning to show that it can help in healthy weight loss.

First, how does acupuncture work? The Chinese believe in mystical energy streams. Research has shown that it has to do with how the nerves work in your body. Your brain isn't segmented - there isn't one area for feet, another for hands. Instead, nerves are all entwined together. The nerves for your neck might be immediately next to nerves for your big toe. Therefore, if you stimulate the nerves in your big toe - it ends up stimulating the nerves related to your neck as well. By activating one, you can affect the other.

So, how can this help with weight loss? It's not that you somehow zap your stomach so that it gets smaller. That's not how acupuncture works. Instead, let's look at some of the key issues that lead to a weight problem.

First, a lot of the issue can relate to stress. People who are stressed often eat for comfort, to help them feel better. People eat unhealthy food because they're feeling rushed and unable to take the time to eat a more healthy meal. Acupuncture can help with these issues. By being more relaxed, you can eat more slowly - key to proper digestion. You can hold off on ice cream binges.

Next, it is always important to have an active life in order to maintain a proper weight and metabolism. However, some people get so sore from exercise that they resist doing more. Acupuncture can help with the sore muscles and other issues. By helping your body heal and recover from the strains of exercise, you can keep doing the work to build strong muscles and a strong body.

If you haven't tried acupuncture, it might be worth taking a look into it, to see if it can help you overcome your personal hurdles.