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5 Reasons Acupuncture Helps with Digestion

  • Writer: Jen Badach
    Jen Badach
  • Jan 29, 2019
  • 2 min read

Sherwood Park Acupuncture | Digestive Health

Digestion is a complex process that our bodies perform, starting in the mouth and concluding when the ingested food exits through the rectum. Despite our advancements in understanding digestion, there remains much to learn. For instance, it has only been in the last decade that modern medicine has acknowledged our gastrointestinal tract as our second brain. This revelation is significantly altering our perspective on bodily functions, highlighting how everything we consume can profoundly impact both our minds and bodies.

Digestive disorders are prevalent in both Canada and the United States, with surveys indicating that nearly 70 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of digestive issue. These disorders can range from gallstones to acid reflux and pancreatitis, often leading to debilitating consequences. However, many individuals mistakenly believe that their digestive discomfort is simply “normal.”

One effective approach to managing digestive disorders is through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This ancient medical system employs various modalities to address imbalances within the body, with acupuncture being a prominent method. Ongoing research into the effectiveness of acupuncture continues to yield promising results for those grappling with digestive challenges.

Acupuncture aids digestion by treating individuals holistically, taking into account all aspects of their health rather than isolating specific symptoms as often seen in Western medicine. Consequently, patients working with a registered acupuncturist or TCM practitioner may experience improvements not only in their digestive issues but also in their overall mental well-being. Given the close connection between the mind and body, this holistic approach can be particularly advantageous.

Research indicates that acupuncture can stimulate peristalsis in the intestinal tract, providing relief for individuals suffering from chronic constipation. Remarkably, many find relief after just one or two treatments.

Nausea and vomiting, common digestive complaints, can also be effectively addressed through acupuncture and acupressure. One extensively studied acupressure point located on the underside of the forearm has been shown to significantly alleviate these symptoms in many cases.

Bloating, often caused by overeating or improper digestion, is another frequent issue. Acupuncture treatments can enhance the digestive process, helping to break down food without the excess gas that typically leads to bloating.

Diarrhea is not solely a symptom of the stomach flu; it is more common than many realize. Acupuncture can help resolve diarrhea by eliminating excess heat or dampness from the digestive tract while simultaneously strengthening it.

If you are interested in discovering how acupuncture in Sherwood Park and Traditional Chinese Medicine can assist you with your digestive concerns, feel free to ask during your next appointment or book your consultation and treatment online.

 
 
 

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