A poorly functioning digestive system is the root cause of unwanted weight gain. When the spleen and stomach are not working in harmony, we manifest feelings such as anxiety and overthinking, which affects our ability to metabolize food properly. Traditional Chinese medicine or TCM believes that the body’s life force, Qi, runs through our body’s energy pathways known as meridians.

There are 14 major meridians, which relate to our organs. When unwell Qi is out of balance, acupuncture in Overland Park can be used to restore balance by targeting specific points on the body, which are connected to the meridians. When stimulated with acupuncture, the body rebalances Qi. Auricular (ear) acupuncture is the method most often used for weight loss.

Common auricular acupuncture points used:

Hunger and stomach points (for satiety and fullness)

Shen men (for sedation and pain relief)

Stimulation of the auricular nerves inhibits hunger pangs and curbs appetite. Acupuncture facilitates quick release of neurotransmitters, which improves moods and reduces stress and helps control food intake. Other acupuncture points for weight loss include:

The mouth to reduce impulsive eating;

The lungs, which spreads Qi downward to the kidneys;

The endocrine glands, to prevent water retention;

The adrenal glands and ovaries to address menopause weight gain

The spleen to balance hormones and blood sugars;

The kidneys to relieve anxiety;

The thyroid to accelerate metabolism

Traditional Chinese Medicine Diet for Weight Loss

Slows down carbohydrate absorption, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol and cleanses a fatty liver.

1. Spice up hot drinks

2. Add spices like cinnamon, ginger, peppermint, fennel or licorice to hot drinks to enhance digestion.

3. Savor your meal.

4. Don’t rush eating. Pause between bites, chew slowly and pay close attention to flavor.

5. Add color to your diet.

6. The color yellow is associated with this, and spleen

7. Eat more green leafy vegetables. Add butternut squash, corn, yellow peppers, golden beets and sweet potatoes.

8. Plan your day, control your thoughts. Obsessive and unproductive thoughts unbalance the spleen and stomach Qi.

9. Transform your worries into a concrete action plan. It’s as simple as making a to-do list for the day. This will put all that anxious energy into good use and help you move forward.