3 Alternative Weight Loss Methods To Consider

We get experts to weigh in on whether these alternative weight loss methods are legit.

- Ng Mei Yan

From crash diets and appetite suppresents to fat-burning procedures and liposuction, there are no short of methods available for weight watchers to try to drop kilos. And consumers are lapping them up, especially if they don’t find success with exercise and moderate dieting. But while fads come and go, there have been a few alternative weight loss methods that seem to have withstood the test of time and gained themselves serious advocates. Here, we round them up and break them down for their effectiveness and safety.

Acupuncture

The age-old traditional Chinese medicine technique has been used for all kinds of ailments from pain and allergies to PMS and addictions. For weight loss, scientists are still on the fence about it, but a recent study published in The Scientific World Journal found that the majority of 196 obese patients who received acupuncture and restricted their diet lost weight over six weeks.

How it works

“Acupuncture works to manage imbalances in the body that cause weight problems,” says physician Anita Pee of Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic. Depending on the body constitution and health condition of the patient, hair-thin needles are applied to selected acupuncture points that can promote digestion, improve metabolic rate, control the appetite and strengthen spleen functions to reduce water retention, she adds.

Some other studies have found that acupuncture can reduce stress – particularly useful for emotional eaters. The technique doesn’t melt fat offthe body directly, but helps promote better health in general and may lead you to make better food and lifestyle choices.

What to expect