Are You Immune to a Fat Burning Diet?

Many individuals blame their weight gain on a “fat gene” or a “slow metabolism”. Science has studied whether obesity is primarily genetic and if some people are immune to a low-calorie fat burning diet due to a naturally low metabolic rate. What did they discover?

Throughout this post, follow the scientific exploration of How To Be Slim presented by the BBC in a six-part series:

BBC – How to be Slim Part 1/6

Do Slim People Have a Higher Metabolic Rate?

Metabolism is about how much energy (calories) the body requires when at rest, and the facts indicate that heavier people have a higher metabolic rate, not the other way around. Abnormal metabolisms are rare and seldom the cause of obesity. A normal metabolism will MAINTAIN body weight whatever that may be.

BBC – How to be Slim Part 2/6

Is a Fat Gene to Blame for Obesity?

The famous “fat gene”, only found in a minute percentage of the population, isn’t triggered without excessive caloric intake. Fat isn’t generated by breathing air, therefore, a fat burning diet, which reduces calories below what the body needs to maintain its current weight, will be effective.

BBC – How to be Slim Part 3/6

How Much Are You Really Eating?

Why do certain individuals gain weight while claiming to adhere to a low-calorie diet? The answer is that some people eat a lot more than they think they’re eating. For science to prove that the best way to lose weight is indeed a low calorie diet, a test was developed to measure how much people REALLY eat. Using DLW (doubly labeled water), with non-radioactive isotope markers, caloric intake is measured accurately. The results indicate that people with weight issues, who believe they eat very little, unconsciously may consume as much as double what they claim to eat.

BBC – How to be Slim Part 4/6

Protein-Rich Meals – Long-lasting Satiety and Weight Loss

With genetic and metabolic excuses eliminated, and overeating again responsible for weight gain, the question remains:

Why do some people eat more than others?

There are two main reasons.

1. a propensity to eat even when not hungry (poor eating habits established in childhood)
2. eating foods that don’t satisfy. When hunger returns quickly, a person is likely to eat sooner, therefore consume more calories.

Scientific studies suggest that the best way to lose weight is to obtain satisfaction from meals for longer periods of time. How?

BBC – How to be Slim Part 5/6

1. Protein

Eating protein keeps the stomach full longer. Reducing carbohydrates and increasing protein is the key to a fat burning diet. Tofu, salmon, tuna, trout and mackerel, plus leafy greens, provides the body what it needs to lose weight and be satisfied.

2. Thick Soup

Scientific experiments prove that drinking meals may be best way to lose weight. A thick blended soup will satisfy longer than the same foods in a regular meal + a glass of water.

3. Portion Size

Studies indicate that people tend to gobble whatever’s served on their plate/bowl. By choosing a smaller dish, people can feel satisfied with 30% – 50% less.

4. Meals As Events

People consume more when focused on watching a movie / TV. Whether eating meals or imbibing nutrients while on a juice diet, mealtime should be a separate event in order for the brain to record optimum satisfaction.

5. No Buffets

Experiments suggest that too many choices (even healthy ones) will cause people to unconsciously overindulge little by little. Avoid buffets like the plague.

BBC – How to be Slim Part 6/6

A Vegetable Juice Diet?

While protein prolongs satiety, getting sufficient veggies, especially greens, is essential, yet difficult. A vegetable juice diet may be a means to obtain the three to five recommended fruits and vegetables a day and in delicious combinations that just glide down. Jason Vale is one of the UK’s top juice diet experts. Take a look at a snippet of Jason Vale’s juice diet recipes in this video:

’7lbs in 7 Days’ – Super Juice Detox Diet DVD

For an energy boosting start to your day, try one of Jason Vale’s smoothies:

Juice Master Smoothie recipe – Breakfast On The Go

Blend spinach, apple and pineapple for a delightful green smoothies recipe. Watch how easy it is:

Juice Master Smoothie recipe – Turbo Express

Buy Jason Vale 7 Lbs in 7 Days Super Juice Diet DVD (NTSC version) for a full 150 minutes of simple, delicious and effective juice diet recipes and instructions – a complete program that works FAST!

You’re just 7 days away from a slimmer, healthier YOU.

Plus:

Order the Book: “The Juice Master: Turbo-Charge Your Life in 14 Days” by Jason Vale, and get a 14 day juice diet plan that includes thirty recipes for boosting energy and losing weight.

Jason Vale, best known in the UK, now offers ‘the Juice Master’ program to people in the United States and around the world.

Why is the fat burning diet with juice so effective? Because it removes all the wheat and yeasts and refined “good for nothing” carbs while presenting you with a way to make your meals filled with nutrient rich vegetables and fruits – in fact, by following a few simple tips, you can be eating and drinking your way to health with up to 70% LIVE foods. Included in the book is the special Jason Vale Power Green Smoothies Recipe.

Order Now and see results in just a week or two.

- The Juice Master: Turbo-Charge Your Life in 14 Days by Jason Vale

Another way to get greens and fruits is with green smoothies like those recommended by Victoria Boutenko.

The difference between a juice diet and green smoothies?

The differences between a juice diet and drinking smoothies is about carbohydrates and fiber. Vegetable/fruit juices are EXTRACTED, green smoothies are BLENDED using whole fruits / leafs to create a thick drink with parsley, kale, dandelion, spinach (or other greens) plus apples, blue-purple/red berries and seasonal fruit –the fibrous pulp is included. A juice diet focuses on nutrients in a variety of starch and non-starchy vegetables; green smoothies are just leafy greens and fruits – no starch.

Green Smoothies Recipes

The best green smoothies recipes are those made from 40% – 50% fresh leafy greens and 50% – 60% seasonal fruit, plus water. Nothing else! Exotic super fruits are not essential for nutritious smoothies. Adapt original green smoothies recipes using basic principles found in the book “Green Smoothie Revolution: The Radical Leap Towards Natural Health” by Victoria Boutenko.

Order the Book now.

- Green Smoothie Revolution: The Radical Leap Towards Natural Health by Victoria Boutenko

For simple, basic tips on GREEN smoothies, have a look at what Victoria Boutenko’s son, Sergei Boutenko, has to say in this video presentation:

Green Smoothie (Original)

Digestion and Combing Fruits and Veggies

Green smoothies recipes don’t include carbohydrate-type vegetables like carrots, beats, broccoli, cabbage (and others), only green leaves and fruit. The distinction is important when it comes to digestive enzymes. The basic rules for green smoothies are:

1. Use only greens (not starchy veggies), fruit and water
2. keep smoothies simple = two/ three ingredients
3. rotate greens daily for optimum nutrients
4. reduce fruit and increase greens slowly over time

Buy the DVD Greens Can Save Your Life by Victoria Boutenko (NTSC version for Region 1 – the United States and Canada). Although release in 2005, the information and inspiration provided in as up to date and pertinent TODAY as it ever has been. Greens don’t go out of style! Even if you’re skeptical about Victoria Boutenko’s approach, this DVD will show compelling evidence about the nutritional value of GREENS.

- Greens Can Save Your Life by Victoria Boutenko

For more information on diet and nutrition, and to discover ways of eating healthy on a budget (and what unhealthy foods to avoid) continue reading 30 Days to Healthier Eating Habits.

Can ANYONE lose weight by reducing calories and increasing greens?

Why does it seem like some people eat and eat and never gain an ounce, while others sniff something yummy in the air and gain a pound?

If you’ve ever wondered: Why Thin People Aren’t Fat, here’s an intriguing scientific experiment presented by BBC2 in a seven-part series that answers exactly that question:

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 1/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 2/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 3/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 4/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 5/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 6/7

Why Are Thin People Not Fat 7/7

Please Leave a Comment

If you have had a unique personal experience, know about a scientific study, have participated in a clinical trial, or are a researcher, healthcare professional or dietician with information on the best way to lose weight, please leave a comment (with details on how we may contact you). It is our aim to (after investigating) add your personal and professional expertise to the information Effective Human offers FREE to the millions (perhaps billions) of reasoning minds who continue searching for the best ways to help their evolving bodies.

See the video where Dr Dowe explains Acupressure and Acupuncture for Weight Loss & Addictions:

For information on the NADA protocol, which is an auricular acupuncture treatment used to treat addictions (which may include food and tobacco), see what Robert Linde has to say. Robert Linde is a herbalist, acupuncturist and tai chi expert who has been involved in practicing TCM for the past six years. In this video, he explains Acupuncture Therapy using Ear Needles:

When describing this kind of therapeutic acupuncture for weight loss, modern scientific terminology is employed to explain why it may potentially be effective, but how does accupunture stand up to clinical examination in RTCs (randomized controlled trials)? Is there a difference between TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) treatments and modern medical acupuncture therapies?

The Foundations of Acupuncture

What’s considered by some to be “medical” acupuncture for back pain, weight loss, fertility and other disorders, while making use of scientific terms, maintains (at least) a casual connection in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) principles – otherwise it wouldn’t be acupuncture. Although there are differences between traditional acupuncture weight loss treatments (and those for pain or fertility), where needle insertion may be accompanied by moxibustion and herbal preparations) versus ones considered “modern” (that may use electronic devices to stimulate pressure points with pulses), the foundations are rooted in: (1.) astrology, (2.) superstition, and (3.) Daoist religious beliefs.

It’s important to understand that acupuncture techniques were developed (the beginnings may be up to 4,000 years old) prior to scientific discoveries in bacteriology or mapping of the circulatory system, and before there was any idea that neurotransmitters like endorphins or serotonin were responsible for feelings of well-being, and long before molecular biology / genetics offered DNA codes of the human genome to demonstrate the role heredity plays in disease and health. This may cause some to wonder:

• Were ancient acupuncturists ahead of their time?
• Did Daoists unwittingly tap into a source of medical knowledge that, perhaps, they themselves didn’t understand, but now can be explained through modern science?
• Is it possible that Daoist masters knew something modern science has missed?
• Hasn’t science proven that energy meridians and pressure points used in acupuncture are early maps of how energy flows through the human body?

Many people today throw around words like meridians, energy channels and qi (chi) without fully understanding their origins. So before looking at types of acupuncture weight loss techniques or what clinical studies suggest when it comes to acupuncture for back pain, and weight loss, let’s investigate how these treatments began – in the world of Traditional Daoist philosophy:

Daoism is about universal connectivity (not through genetic coding sequences), in part, derived from the metaphysical philosophy of Lingshu Jing and his first century BCE “Divine Pivot” texts (considered to be medical wisdom of the day), which promoted ideas (borrowed from previous Chinese philosophies / superstitions) that disease results when an individual doesn’t live in accord with qi (chi) – a mystical energy force that causes (amongst other things) blood to flow (via channels known as “meridians”), and that when this energy is balanced properly, may avert infection and thwart disease.

To see how traditional meridians are used (today) view this video called “Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine: Tui Na Meridians” where expert acupuncturists, Sarah and Sig Hauer, demonstrate various techniques (manual manipulation and needle insertion based on traditional points) to relax muscles, stimulate and/or balance energy meridians, promote better organ function and a sense of well-being in their patient:

And for a more humorous look at acupuncture:

The Origins of Meridian Channels

The mapping of the original qi (chi) channels or meridians, through which healing and balancing energy was said to flow, has been attributed to Ling Shu Jing’s imaginative use of the how rivers flowed through the heart of the middle kingdom, which was (at that time) what the Chinese empire was thought to be – the central country, the center of all civilization; the center of the world. The number of rivers in the empire was what originally dictated the number of energy channels that laid the foundation for how qi was believed to flow through (and around) the human body, regulating the blood, the pulse, internal organs, balancing the entire physical organism, responsible for healing diseases, stopping infection / inflammation and connecting with universal energy as a whole.

Astrological Acupuncture Pressure Points

Models of traditional acupuncture points are based on Chinese astrology where animals represented each of the 12 years required for Jupiter to orbit the sun. Although based on early studies of the stars (mixed with large doses of conjecture and superstition), it’s not to be confused with astronomy. In some of the original acupuncture models, a portion of the upper body points can be stimulated to open a channel between heavenly realms and earthly ones; to connect a human spirit to the divine heavenly world. On most models, the channels and astrological points (on original Chinese models there were 365 points which corresponded to the number of days in a year) were designed to combat disease and promote well-being by balancing the ying-yang (positive and negative) flow of qi (chi) by inserting needles into these designated points to either release a channel blockage, eliminate stagnation of the blood and/or bring the body’s ying-yang into balance to cure illness.

(Product example: Female Acupuncture Model and Male Acupuncture Model with Chinese / English Points by Lhasa OMS)

What’s troubling about the foundations on which acupuncture is based (aside from Chinese rivers being the source of meridians and pressure points being equal to the number of days in a year), is the concept that a human body could avoid stagnation of the blood flow (equal to the cessation of the flow of qi). Why is this troubling? Because for blood to stop flowing, in order to stagnate due to poor chi, would mean that what we know about the circulatory system (with a heart pumping blood through veins / vessels) would have to be wrong . Blood doesn’t “stagnate” unless the heart stops beating.

The documentary entitled “Michael Shermer Tests Acupuncture” explores some of the issues and concerns as well as the philosophy behind traditional therapies – for example does it matter WHERE the needles are placed? Are needles even necessary? And, what does an MRI test show as to brain stimulation and endorphin release when acupuncture is performed? Are only a few of the original 365 points effective? If so, which ones, and why? Take a look:

Modern Acupuncture and Acupressure Therapies

Modern medical acupuncture for weight loss, aiding fertility and alleviating back pain, amongst other conditions, doesn’t necessarily follow the original meridian channels or the astrological pressure point models as a guide for needle insertion or for manual or electronic pressure point stimulation / relaxation. It’s estimated that there are now upwards of 2000 possible points depending on which models are used. Although some acupuncturists will use Chinese charts, many techniques focus on “trigger points”, especially in myofascial release therapy, whereby soft tissue is manipulated / relaxed through massage or with acupuncture needle insertion (or electronic pulses / applied pressure) to release stress on injured or sore muscles, to stimulate circulation, to alleviate pain and restore movement.

(Example: The Myofascial Release Manual by Carol Manheim MS MEd PT LPC)

Acupressure therapies that are designed to aid in weight loss, and acupuncture back pain treatments, as well as those used to alleviate headaches and muscular tension, usually apply pressure to specific areas unique to each patient. It’s exactly this personalized, non-standard, individual attention, offered by therapists who spend time with each patient (usually more than an hour for an evaluation and treatment), that makes acupuncture emotionally satisfying for those in pain, stressed over weight gain or anxious to become pregnant, and at the same time, extremely difficult to study in a clinical environment where treatments must be standardized. That’s partly why clinical studies that have sought to examine none-invasive auricular acupuncture and traditional needle insertion procedures provide inaccurate and incomplete results. Then why does the WHO recommend acupuncture?

What Does the World Health Organization (WHO) say about acupuncture for weight loss (as a treatment for obesity), back pain, female infertility and other diseases / conditions?

The World Health Organization (despite controversy) recommends that, based on available clinical evidence, acupuncture may be a treatment for certain diseases and disorders. Acupuncture weight loss treatments, as a possible means to combat obesity, is listed amongst the conditions (second category) as having possible therapeutic effects “but for which further proof is needed”. They do not state that there is conclusive evidence in support of these alternative therapies. Let’s look closer at what the WHO has to say.

Acupuncture Back Pain Treatments

The WHO’s official website offers a list of “Diseases and disorders that can be treated with acupuncture”. They state that the “diseases or disorders for which acupuncture therapy has been tested in controlled clinical trials reported in the recent literature can be classified into four categories…” and then they go on to list these categories and the conditions, which include (in the first category) things like depression, various types of pain including facial, knee, neck, elbow and lower back, headaches, hypertension, nausea, and to induce labor and reduce pain for pregnant women.

What the WHO Says About Acupuncture Weight Loss Therapy

In the second category, which is about “Diseases, symptoms or conditions for which the therapeutic effect of acupuncture has been shown but for which further proof is needed” there are things such as gastrointestinal spasms, acne, earaches, female infertility and male sexual dysfunction of a non-organic nature, insomnia, obesity, osteoarthritis, drug addictions such as opium, cocaine / tobacco and spinal pain.

Worth a Try?

In the third category, labeled as “Diseases, symptoms or conditions for which there are only individual controlled trials reporting some therapeutic effects, but for which acupuncture is worth trying because treatment by conventional and other therapies is difficult” we find things like irritable colon syndrome, chronic pulmonary heart disease, airway obstructions and deafness.

Combining Acupuncture with Modern Medical Procedures

The forth category on the WHO list pertains to the use of acupuncture as a treatment in conjunction with modern medical procedures. As such, they advise that “acupuncture may be tried provided the practitioner has special modern medical knowledge and adequate monitoring equipment”. Amongst the conditions that may possibly benefit are infant convulsions, comas and some forms of paralysis.

To read the complete list on the World Health Organization’s official website, go to http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Js4926e/5.html where an 87 page PDF booklet is available to download, entitled: “Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials”.

Specific Studies on the Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Weight Loss

The non-invasive acupuncture weight loss therapy, mentioned at the start of this post, using auricular acupressure devices has been studied; mostly by companies that manufacture the devices. Attempts to independently verify findings using double-blind randomized testing methods have proved inconclusive, and in most cases the researcher’s comments mention the obstacles of accurately measuring the effectiveness of acupuncture with needles and/or auricular acupressure due to the inherent “personalized” nature of treatments and the inability to separate related factors like diet, exercise, and personal beliefs that alter results.

It’s therefore not surprising that in tests where dietary changes and exercise were used as well as an auricular acupuncture device (to apply pressure to specific points on the ear), the results indicated that participants who used acupuncture weight loss devices and those who didn’t, lost weight, albeit those with devices lost a bit more. With such devices being extremely difficult to subjectively test, they often end up being studied in pseudo-controlled environments or where too many variables affect the results – such as “which diet?”, “what exercise?” and what form of placebo or “sham” will be chosen in control groups.

Acupuncture Weight Loss Device Scams

Uncontrolled methods of testing has lead manufacturers to use these pseudo-studies to backup claims in support of marketing scams. One example, from the late ‘90’s, was brought to the world’s attention when the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged Original Marketing, Inc., Franklin & Joseph, Inc., Barry A. Weiss; and Roger Franklin (who made / sold Acu-Stop 2000), with fraud. While the individuals / companies involved stated that their devices had been “scientifically proven to cause significant weight loss and control appetite,” a randomized study using 69 participants showed that, after 12 weeks of treatment, the weight loss in the groups using the device and those without didn’t differ. Based on that and other evidence that Acu-Stop 2000 devices didn’t help people lose weight, the FTC recalled them (ordered the companies to pay refunds to customers) and prohibited them from marketing other weight loss products / devices without first providing a massive performance bond.

Not Deliberate Scams But… No Guarantees

Although ear devices for weight loss are sold in shops and online, most individuals prefer auricular acupuncture treatments with personalized attention from a practitioner. The setting where acupuncture is offered (usually comfortable places of serene relaxation), the practitioner’s gentle touch, and the personalized attention devoted to a patient, are apparently very important factors. However, some people practice on one another (as couples) or on themselves. Here are some of the devices individuals try at home:

1. the AcuPen – a device that stimulates pressure pints electronically and can used on the hand or ear. HealthCare Acu-Point Pen costs about $100 and acts as an electronic probe to stimulate acupuncture nerves points, relax muscle tension, and stimulate circulation.

2. the Acu Slim Magnetic Earrings that exert pressure on the earlobe while 1500-Gauss magnets hold them in place. They cost about $25 and some people claim they work to suppress appetite.
3. $14 gets you a pack of 12 Accu-Band 800-gauss magnets that are gold plated and have a protrusion in the middle of each ear magnet to stimulate a pressure point.

4. Pointer Excel II Digital Acupunture & Pressure Point Locator by Lhasa, which costs about $160 and is a no needle acupuncture system for practitioners of DIY use. This machine helps to locate pressure points and then flashes and beeps once located, with a digital display, and adjustable electronic frequency. This device is used to stimulate traditional acupuncture or modern trigger points.

5. The book, “Acupressure’s Potent Points: A Guide to Self-Care for Common Ailments” by Michael Reed Gach is for those interested in self-acupressure. It offers diagrams and forty chapters on conditions / which points to press. The book describes historic elements of acupuncture while focusing on technique.

Factors that Alter Testing of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Acupuncture Devices

What about Acu-Slim Beads, also known as Accu-trim, or the many TENS devices – meaning they operate using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and the various reports that up to 95% of test participants have found such simple devices useful for appetite suppression and weight loss? The problem is that the studies showing such favorable results can’t be verified because of: (1.) participant self-reporting procedures, (2.) no control on individual diets, and (3.) no control over participant’s exercise program – all factors that could greatly influence results.

J M Lacey, A M Tershakovec, and G D Foster at the West Chester University, Sturzebecker Health Sciences Center, West Chester, PA, published an article in April 2002, entitled: “Acupuncture for the treatment of obesity: a review of the evidence” where they state that “Although acupuncture is being utilized to treat a variety of important health problems, its usefulness in obesity management has not yet been fully evaluated.” Summarizing the problems of “acupoint stimulation” and “auricular acupuncture” studies, the report explains that many acupuncture weight loss studies are “descriptive in nature”, too short in duration, and use “nonstandard treatment protocols”.

Factors Effecting Testing of Acupuncture Weight Loss Therapies and Devices

Those who attempt to conduct unbiased RTCs (randomized controlled trials) on acupuncture for weight loss, state that the problem of accurate results may stem from (or be related to) the fact that weight gain is often accompanied by (even caused by) psychological issues, stress and depression. So while it may be (relatively) easy to determine if inserting a needle “here” or pressing “there” eliminates pain by stimulating the neurotransmitter levels and ending the pain (or making breathing easier in the case of an asthmatic patient), it’s not so easy in the case of obesity. Why?

Using needles, pressure or electronic pulses to stimulate nerve junctions (or trigger points) and thereby send nerve impulses to the brain, has been tested using electroacupuncture, staplepuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to transmit an electrical current to a an acupoint, and works quite well to reduce pain. However, when it comes to stimulating nerves to suppress appetite and affect the ventromedial hypothalamus (which is what controls the feeling of hunger verses satiety) the issues are more complex. Why? Because although studies indicate that rats using auricular acupuncture devices lose weight, evaluating human data must take into account the psychological relationships between feeling hungry due to being “hungry” in the gastrointestinal sense, versus wanting food due to depression or various emotional issues. Increasing neurotransmitters using acupuncture to combat depression are being tested to see if a combination of appetite suppression acupressure, and endorphin / serotonin stimulation to induce the feeling of well-being, could help combat two problem areas associated with obesity.

What Modern Medical Acupuncture Treatments Can Theoretical Achieve

While many practitioners claim that there is evidence to suggest using a triple therapy program, involving a low fat diet, aerobic exercise and acupuncture, this raises a lot of questions. What type “type” of acupuncture?

Some acupuncturists say that it’s important to use modern knowledge of neurotransmitters, and that the treatments that have potential are those that target satiety in the ventromedial nuclei of the hypothalamus and the auricular branch of the vagal nerve (one of the two cranial nerves extending from brain to abdomen), which can potentially be stimulated to elevate the levels of serotonin. Many claim that action upon the hypothalamus has the potential to suppress appetite and aid gastrointestinal functions, while treating the vagal nerve may increase endorphin and dopamine production which may help control stress and alleviate depression.

Some practitioners who base their acupuncture therapies for weight management on the theory that stimulating endorphins can have a lipolithic effect, meaning that increased endorphins could possibly lead to better breakdown of lipids (fat), make a valid theoretical point, but the question remains: is it necessary to target specific points with needles or pulses in order to release endorphins, or might endorphin release also be triggered by (as humorously commented in Michael Shermer’s documentary) a pinch on the fanny?

Moxibustion for Weight Loss?

While there’s at least some evidence to support the practice of relaxing or stimulating nerves through manipulation or using electric devices for temporary relief of pain, studies employing purely traditional methods (said to balance meridian energy flow using ancient models) that may include moxibustion (where moxa herbal preparations, made into what look like incense cones, pellets or long cigars, are burnt on or near to a patient’s skin during acupuncture sessions) show that patients experience no significant weight loss, in fact “sham’ procedures (ones that don’t target any “real” points), apparently work just as well.

That, should make everyone ask WHY? If treatments using ancient pressure points actually work by balancing qi, (qi therefore being a real force) that wouldn’t explain why “sham” acupuncture also works some of the time,a nd often even better. What’s going on?

Example product: Huaian Stick Moxa – Super Pure Grade by Huaian Moxa)

An Acupuncture Conundrum?

Using the data available on acupuncture treatments for pain, weight loss, fertility and other health issues, and taking into account that clinical studies show inconclusive results in acupuncture weight loss systems, in many cases where treatments are used for pain or other ailments, both the “real” acupuncture and the “sham” procedures (using placebo treatments that don’t use “actual” pressure points or accurate needle insertions) suggest a measure of benefit for participants. Yes, it’s true. Patients benefit from being poked or pressed in areas that neither conform to traditional models or to more modern charts – just random points.

How is it possible that a “sham” treatment, which doesn’t physically stimulate anything in a medical or traditional sense, often produces a positive result?

The answer may rest in the power of placebo – the power of “believing” that a treatment, product or remedy will be beneficial. In some cases, a placebo or a “sham” treatment may be as effective (or more effective) as the ‘real’ procedure. Why?

Here’s a well-researched video that analyses the power of the placebo effect based on the a scientific understanding of the human body as it pertains to acupuncture and acupressure therapies. This video just one example of an excellent series by C0nc0rdance that explores controversial and widely believed superstitious subjects in the light of scientific fact:

(Sincere thanks to those involved in making the videos offered on the YouTube channel “Real Science C0nc0rdance”)

In order to thoroughly explore the potential of the placebo effect, we need to delve into the fascinating world of neuropsychology – the science where neuroanatomy meets psychological functions. This is examined in the related post about Science and Natural Healing. Find out why certain non-scientific, even controversial, techniques, remedies and non-pharmaceutical natural health supplements, herbs and homeopathic products do work for some people some of the time. Discover what neuropsychologists say about placebo power: Can it’s power be harnessed for your benefit? When is it dangerous, even fatal, to rely on “belief” as a cure for serious health conditions.

We have all heard it a thousand times – if you want to lose weight, eat less and exercise more. In many cases, it is simply left there with no further explanation. When you follow this logic, it makes sense that very low calorie diets such as the 1000 calorie diet plan or any number of other cleanse diets are the best ways to lose weight. After all, if you can lose some weight with a 500 calorie per day deficit, just think about how much you will lose with a 1500 calorie per day deficit. The truth is that these diets simply do not work for weight loss, and can even risk your health.

The human body has evolved to survive. In the past, when a person went for an extended period of time with very low calorie intake, the body had to develop techniques for using fewer calories in order to survive. This is how our ancestors were able to survive periods of extended famine, because of the “starvation mode,” our bodies go into when we don’t eat enough. You burn fewer calories performing the same activities and become tired and lethargic as your metabolism slows. This makes it much more difficult to lose weight, and is frequently responsible for weight loss plateaus. If you are serious about losing weight, you have to keep your calorie intake high enough.

There are mental aspects of weight loss in play as well that you should consider. Anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders, in many cases stem from what is perceived to be a lack of control over your life and what happens to you. We may not have any control over what happens to us in our job or out in the world, but in almost every case, we have complete control over what we eat. This is a good thing because with discipline and planning, you can lose weight, but it is also a bad thing. That need for control can become so great that we end up developing an eating disorder. Keeping calorie intake at a reasonable level encourages not only weight loss, but it reduces the risk of developing such a disorder.

While the basic formula of using very low calorie diets for weight loss includes eating less and exercising more, there is more that needs to be considered in order to ensure success. Calories can only be cut so far before you begin to suffer from both physical and mental consequences. This can take the form of weight loss plateaus, loss of energy, depression, and even the development of eating disorders. In order to ensure that you are not only able to lose weight, but are doing so in a safe manner, it is important that you work with a doctor. There is more to weight loss than, “How many calories should I eat a day to lose weight?” and, “What should I eat to lose weight?”

When it comes to losing weight, you probably already have a general idea of what it takes to achieve your goals. Of course in the real world, finding time to exercise properly and eat in a healthy manner can be an entirely different matter. There are things that happen to us in everyday life that make it much more difficult to stay on track when it comes to health. This is why it helps to take a step-by-step approach and try to incorporate as many healthy habits into your daily routine as possible. When you start off small, you can reward yourself for meeting simple goals, and hopefully build up a more comprehensive fat loss routine in the future. The most important thing is to keep pushing forward because a healthy lifestyle is something you should aim for on a long-term basis, not just when you’re trying to lose weight.

Spread out your meals – rather than eating three large meals a day, it can be beneficial to spread out your food intake into smaller meals and snacking sessions. This will help to keep your metabolism going in addition to helping you resist the temptation to over eat when it comes to dinner. Remember that you shouldn’t avoid eating altogether, although there is an extreme temptation to do so when it comes to easy fat loss. But the fact of the matter is, you could damage your metabolism by starving yourself, so keep that food coming and make smart choices.

Build Muscles – cardiovascular activity is absolutely essential for fat loss, but you can also see great benefits if you can manage to build up some muscle mass. Muscle burns a lot more calories and fat, and you get the added benefit of being able to raise your overall metabolism when your muscles are trim and fit. So in addition to getting aerobic exercise through walking or more intensive exercises, you might want to use home exercise equipment as well to start building up those muscles.

Cut out the Easy Stuff – one of the easiest ways to cut down on your overall calories is to take out all of those unhealthy foods that have no nutritional value. We’re not talking about starving yourself, this is a simple matter of eliminating all the junk food or soft drinks that you consume on a regular basis. In addition to reducing your overall caloric intake this is a great way to reduce your sugar and sodium as well.

The main thing to remember is that losing weight is almost a mind game. Somehow a lot of people have the notion that they can find some mystical cure that will suddenly trim all their fat away. You have to realize that there are a very limited number of ways to lose weight. Your options are basically limited to diet and exercise. That is, if you want to avoid things like expensive surgeries.

Your budget weight loss depends on your desire to do it. Buy foods from local food vendors, or even farmers markets. These foods are great for your health, as they are completely natural, and entirely unprocessed. They may also be cheaper than the store. The downside is that farmer exchange events do not happen very often. You just have to take advantage of it when they are.

If you are short on dollar but still want to lose the pounds, aside from dieting your only option is exercise. Hop on your bike and ride for a mile, and see how you feel. Try and go an additional mile every day, but don’t push yourself. Drink plenty of water, about as much as you sweat. Don’t drink too much as this causes over-hydration.

The main thing to remember is that if you are simply trying to lose belly fat, you will easily get where you want to be within a month. In weight loss, belly fat is the first to go. It is very metabolically active, so if you are simply trying to lose your belly fat, it’s reassuring to know. But you must realize that once you start to lose weight, if you quit, it will come back. The only way to prevent that is to keep exercising and dieting. Do that, and you are sure to be where you want.

Realizing all that it takes is not just diet pills, and also that it is very unhealthy to lose weight quickly. That is because when you lose weight fast, you are actually losing muscle. You can guess this isn’t very good for your body! However, not all hope is lost. Just taking it steady is the best course of action, with most professionals believing that 2 pounds a week is a healthy achievable amount to aim for.

It is understandable to want to look and feel better. It is important to remember that you will never be that skinny supermodel, no matter what you do. You will have a more happy and enjoyable life if you just accept who you are. That doesn’t mean you have to stay fat. There is a way to work out how to lose weight without pills, but the healthy way. And that is, you guessed it, diet and exercise!

You will want to avoid fast food places, sweets, sodas, and animal fats. You should remember that completely cutting food groups from you diet is also not advisable. What you want to do is balance everything you eat. Take it all into moderation. Having too much of one thing will most likely go awry, either going straight to your hips or right to your heart. Simply watching what you eat, and how much of it you eat can help your diet and health.

Any form of exercise along with the right diet will have you seeing a new you in the mirror. Even simple movements like push-ups, sit-ups, or even lifting a can over and over is better than nothing. Ideally, you would want to do something physical like swimming, walking, or hiking. Anything that is appealing to you that you can be comfortable with doing every day for the rest of your life. Just keep at it, and slowly move forward. Although you won’t manage to lose weight in 2 weeks, you will most certainly succeed in the long term if you make the effort.

The first thing to do is easy; find out exactly what you want to do. You are the only one who can figure this out. Do you want to lose weight and get in shape? How exactly are you going to accomplish this? These are questions you must be thinking about, since you are the only one who knows what is going on with your body, and what exactly you want to accomplish. You must figure out the right path and mold it to your life.

After you have a goal set in mind, you must work hard, very hard, to make it a reality. You can take as long as you want to to achieve your goal, but once you start, you can’t afford to give up. Do so and your dreams are never going to materialize, and you will always be overweight and out of shape. It will be the hardest when you first start, since fitting all of this into your life will be a difficult transition to make. You must take it steady and slow, and think it through very thoroughly. You do not want surprises when dealing with something such as losing weight.

The key to success is a good plan, and of course actually doing it. Knowing when and where to get help is also a benefit. Everyone always needs help at some point, just being able to accept it is the tough part. If you have a unique problem or other health factors, I would strongly urge you to contact professional help before making any change to your diet or life style. In order to lose weight you want to take the safest route possible, as this is also the one that has the highest chance of success.

Remember, you are the only one who can help yourself lose weight. And you do that through knowledge and commitment. No one else can lose your weight for you, aside from having expensive surgeries. Just concentrate, keeping pushing forward, and have fun in the process. Weight loss is easy if you are willing to make it easy.