Obesity

• Decrease calorie intake and increase calorie expenditure. A deficit of 500 to 1000 calories per day can result in a reduction of about 1 to 2 pounds per week. Exercise at least 3 times per week for at least 30 minutes. Building muscle also increases your basal metabolic rate.
• Eat more fiber. Adding fiber increases bulk in the stomach and helps you feel full with less food.
• Decrease both fat and sugar intake. One gram of dietary fat has more than twice the calories of one gram of carbohydrate.
• Reduce stress. Find relaxation methods that work for you to limit excessive eating triggered by stress.
• Eliminate boredom-eating. Make a list of at least ten things to do when you are bored and post it on the refrigerator.
• Eat healthy foods. Fruits and vegetables have fewer calories and more vitamins and minerals than fast foods and processed meals.
• Eat small, frequent (but planned) meals. Do not skip meals, as this can lead to binging.
• Eat slowly.
• Limit alcohol, sugar, chocolates, coffee, and ice cream intake.

Losing weight is hard. Maintaining the results is harder. Our clinic addresses both concerns. We ask ourselves two questions: “How to lose weight?” and “Is this the life I want to live forever in order to maintain my weight?”

In our Weight Loss Program, the aim is to deliver a result that lasts a lifetime. Treatment approaches are tailored individually, combining acupuncture with lifestyle modifications to achieve a long-term goal. Instead of “losing weight to enjoy life,” our principle is “enjoy life to lose weight” to make it sustainable.

1. Acupuncture can reduce the feeling of hunger. “Feeling hungry all the time” is one of the drivers of weight gain.
2. Acupuncture may help support motivation and mindfulness around eating habits.
3. Acupuncture may support metabolic function.
4. Acupuncture can reduce the side effects caused by dieting.
5. Many cases of overweight are caused by underlying health conditions. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help harmonize and balance the body’s functions, improving overall health while supporting weight loss at the same time.
6. Acupuncture may help release glucose for energy and improve energy levels.
7. An enjoyable lifestyle modification that enriches life and makes it sustainable. Enjoy life to lose weight!

Rebounding is the most common problem in any weight loss program. It is based on two mechanisms:

1. Patients return to their former lifestyle, which led to the weight problem in the first place, and the weight comes back.

2. Significant weight loss in a short period of time. Rapid weight loss may not allow the body’s weight regulation systems to adjust, which can lead to weight regain.

During our weight loss program, instead of enforcing a healthy lifestyle through strict discipline, our approach is to help patients enjoy their new, healthier lifestyle. This has reduced the chance of rebound for most of our patients.

The number of sessions can vary from 10 to 40 or more, depending on the patient’s goal, condition, lifestyle, and determination. See pricing details below.

Each individual receives needles according to their underlying condition, such as withdrawal symptoms and body constitution. Most acupuncture points do not hurt. Patients typically feel a brief mosquito-bite sensation. Some points tend to be more sensitive than others, and we take extra care with those to avoid discomfort.

Thighs and legs tend to accumulate more fat in women, while the abdomen tends to build up more in men. Acupuncture on those regions can enhance lipolysis (the breakdown of fat) in local areas.

Congratulations, my friend, for getting to this material down here. Call 403-233-0498 to get a personal consultation for further information.

$95/session, $45 consultation. 30-45 minute initial consultation.

Alberta Health Care does not cover acupuncture. Most company benefits cover acupuncture when treatment is provided through a Registered Acupuncturist. Contact your HR department or insurance company for coverage details.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have helped many overweight and obese patients. They are reasonable natural modalities that can support weight loss in a way that is healthier and more sustainable. “It works for many” does not mean “it works for you.” As for you, there is only one way to find out.