Acupuncture for Weight Loss: Natural Support for Gut Health and Metabolism
- Aug 10
- 2 min read
If you’ve been searching for a natural, holistic way to support healthy weight loss, you might be surprised at how effective acupuncture can be. A new study published in Frontiers in Nutrition (Ma et al., 2025) reveals that acupuncture for weight loss works through some of the same biological pathways as nutrition—specifically, the microbiota–gut–brain axis (MGBA), a robust system that regulates digestion, appetite, metabolism, and even mood.
At The London Acupuncturist, we combine traditional Chinese medicine wisdom with modern scientific insight to help you achieve healthy, sustainable results.
What Is the Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis?
The microbiota–gut–brain axis is a communication network linking your digestive system, brain, hormones, and immune system. It influences:
Appetite control
Metabolism and fat storage
Inflammation levels
Mood and stress responses
When this system is out of balance—due to processed foods, stress, lack of sleep, or chronic inflammation—it can make it harder to lose weight, regardless of how much you diet or exercise.
How Acupuncture Supports Weight Loss
Recent research has shown that acupuncture and nutrition share many of the same targets in restoring a healthy weight. Here’s how acupuncture works to rebalance your system:
1. Improves Gut Health and Microbiome Diversity
Acupuncture can help increase beneficial gut bacteria, including SCFA-producing species like Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium. A healthy microbiome improves digestion, supports metabolism, and reduces inflammation.
2. Increases Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
SCFAs, produced by good gut bacteria, help regulate appetite, improve gut barrier function, and reduce inflammation. Both dietary changes and acupuncture can increase SCFA production, leading to better weight management.
3. Activates the Vagus Nerve
Acupuncture points, such as ST36 (Zusanli), stimulate the vagus nerve, which sends signals between the gut and the brain. This improves digestion, reduces stress-driven eating, and regulates appetite.
4. Balances Appetite-Regulating Hormones
Acupuncture helps adjust the levels of GLP-1, PYY, and ghrelin—hormones that control hunger and satiety—so you feel fuller for longer and avoid energy crashes.
The Best Acupuncture Points for Weight Loss
The study highlights several points used in both clinical and pre-clinical trials for acupuncture and metabolism support:
ST36 (Zusanli) – boosts digestion and energy
CV12 (Zhongwan) – supports the stomach and regulates appetite
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – balances hormones and improves digestion
PC6 (Neiguan) – calms the mind and reduces stress-related eating
BL23 (Shenshu) – strengthens kidney energy and metabolism
Why Acupuncture Is More Than Just Weight Loss
While acupuncture can help you lose weight naturally, its benefits go far beyond the scales. By addressing gut health, hormone balance, inflammation, and nervous system regulation, it promotes better overall well-being.
When combined with personalised nutrition advice, movement, and stress management, acupuncture becomes a powerful partner in your weight loss journey.
Book Your Acupuncture for Weight Loss Session in London
At The London Acupuncturist, we offer personalised acupuncture for weight loss programmes that work with your body’s natural systems—not against them. If you’re ready to improve your metabolism, rebalance your gut, and support long-term health, book your consultation today.
Reference:
Ma K, Wang F, Zhang X, Guo L, & Huang Y (2025). Acupuncture and nutritional parallels in obesity: A narrative review of multi-pathway modulation of the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Frontiers in Nutrition, 12:1610814. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1610814
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