[Intervention of electroacupuncture for patients with impaired glucose tolerance].
[Article in Chinese]
Meng H, Zhai X, Hao JD, Wang HC.
Source
Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China. menghong2000@163.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To explore the regulation on 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2h PBG) for patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in the intervention with electroacupuncture.
METHODS:
Sixty cases of IGT were divided randomly into an electroacupuncture group and a blank control group, 30 cases in each one. In electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was applied to Shenshu (BL 23), Pishu (BL 20), Zusanli (ST 36) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) in the intervention, lasting for 6 sessions. In blank control group, no any intervention was adopted. The levels of fasting blood-glucose (FBG), 2 h PBG with 75 g glucose and hemoglobin Alc (HbAlc) were observed before and after the intervention for the patients in electroacupuncture group, as well as in blank con trol group.
RESULTS:
The total effective rate was 76.7% (23/30) in electroacupuncture group, which was superior to that of 16.7% (5/30) in blank control group (P < 0.01). 2h PBG [(7.08 +/- 0.74) mmol/L] and HbAlc [(5.74 +/- 0.35)%] were down-regulated significantly after the intervention with electroacupuncture of 6 sessions in electroacupuncture group. The therapeutic effects of it were superior remarkably to those [(8.93 +/- 1.87) mmol/L, (5.97 +/- 0.591)%] in blank control group, indicating statistical significant difference (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). But, there was no any impact for the patients with normal FBG.
CONCLUSION:
Electroacupuncture may be the means to achieve the clinical effective intervention for the people with IGT and the approach in the prevention and treatment of diabetes at the early stage.
Acupuncture Treatment For Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial |
Acupunct Med. 2012 Sep;30(3):203-7. doi: 10.1136/acupmed-2012-010127. Epub 2012 Jun 22.
Influence of acupuncture on leptin, ghrelin, insulin and cholecystokinin in obese women: a randomised, sham-controlled preliminary trial.
Güçel F, Bahar B, Demirtas C, Mit S, Cevik C.
Source
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Obstetrics and Gynecology Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Obesity is an energy balance problem caused by overeating. Obesity treatment includes diet, exercise, behaviour treatment, pharmacotherapy and surgery; in addition, acupuncture is also an option.
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the effect of acupuncture on weight loss and whether a brief acupuncture treatment of 5 weeks can change circulating levels of leptin, ghrelin, insulin and cholecystokinin (CCK) in obese women.
METHODS:
40 women with a body mass index (BMI)>30 kg/m(2) were equally randomised to either an acupuncture group or a sham (non-penetrating) acupuncture group and received treatment at LI4, HT7, ST36, ST44 and SP6 bilaterally. Both groups had two sessions of 20 min/week for a total of 10 sessions. Serum insulin, leptin, plasma ghrelin and CCK levels were measured by ELISA.
RESULTS:
Acupuncture treatment decreased insulin and leptin levels and induced weight loss, together with a decrease in BMI compared with sham acupuncture. Furthermore, between-group analyses demonstrated increases in plasma ghrelin and CCK levels in subjects who received acupuncture treatment.
CONCLUSION:
These findings suggest that acupuncture may help to regulate weight owing to its beneficial effects on hormones such as insulin, leptin, ghrelin and CCK in obese subjects even after a few weeks of treatment.
Peptides. 2011 Dec;32(12):2394-9. doi: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.10.019. Epub 2011 Oct 25.
Arcuate nucleus of hypothalamus is involved in mediating the satiety effect of electroacupuncture in obese rats.
Fei Wang, Tian de R, Tso P, Han JS.
Source
Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
Abstract
Obesity is a major health problem in the world. Since effective remedies are rare, researchers are trying to discover new therapies for obesity, and acupuncture is among the most popular alternative approaches. This study investigated the anti-obesity mechanisms of EA, using a rat model of diet-induced obesity. After feeding with a high-fat diet for 9 weeks, a number of rats who gained weight that surpassed the maximal body weight of rats in the chow-fed group were considered obese and employed in the study. A 2 Hz EA treatment at the acupoints ST36/SP6 with the intensity increasing stepwise from 0.5-1-1.5 mA was given once a day for 30 min. Rats treated with EA showed significantly decreased food intake and reduced body weight compared with the rats in DIO and restraint group. EA treatment increased peptide levels of α-MSH and mRNA levels of its precursor POMC in the arcuate nuclear of hypothalamus (ARH) neurons. In addition, the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) content of α-MSH was elevated by EA application. ARH lesions by monosodium glutamate abolished the inhibition effect of EA on food intake and body weight. A non-acupoint stimulation did not show the benefit effect on food intake inhibition and body weight reduction compared with restraint and ST36/SP6 EA treatment. We concluded that EA treatment at ST36/SP6 acted through ARH to significantly inhibit food intake and body weight gain when fed a high-fat diet and that the stimulation of α-MSH expression and release might be involved in the mechanism.
Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Int J Neurosci. 2007 May;117(5):579-90.
Electroacupuncture treatment of obesity with psychological symptoms.
Cabioglu MT, Ergene N, Tan U.
Source
Department of Physiology, Selçuk University, Meram Medical School, Konya, Turkey. tugcab@yahoo.com
Abstract
The aim was to study the effect of placebo EA, electroacupuncture (EA), and diet on obesity and accompanying psychological symptoms. One hundred and sixty-five volunteer women participated in the study. There were three groups: (i) Placebo EA, (ii) EA, and (iii) diet restriction group. EA was performed by using three ear and six body points. There was a 4.8% reduction in weight of patients with EA application, whereas patients with a diet restriction and placebo EA had a 2.5% and 2.7% weight reduction, respectively. There were significant decreases in phobia, anger, anxiety, obsession, paranoid symptoms, and depression in the EA groups compared to those of the placebo EA and diet groups. It was suggested that electroacupuncture may be an effective therapy for obesity including the psychological signs and symptoms in women.
ScientificWorldJournal. 2012; 2012: 603539.
Published online 2012 April 29. doi: 10.1100/2012/603539
PMCID: PMC3353309
The Effects of Body Acupuncture on Obesity: Anthropometric Parameters, Lipid Profile, and Inflammatory and Immunologic Markers
Hamid Abdi, 1 , 2 Baixiao Zhao, 1 Mahsa Darbandi, 2 Majid Ghayour-Mobarhan, 2 , 3 ,* Shima Tavallaie, 2 Amir Ali Rahsepar, 3 , 4 Seyyed Mohammad Reza Parizadeh, 2 Mohammad Safariyan, 2 Mohsen Nemati, 2 Maryam Mohammadi, 2 Parisa Abbasi-Parizad, 2 Sara Darbandi, 2 Saeed Akhlaghi, 2 and Gordon A. A. Ferns 5
Author information ► Article notes ► Copyright and License information ►
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Abstract
A randomized controlled clinical trial in 196 obese subjects was performed to examine the effectiveness of body acupuncture on body weight loss, lipid profile and immunogenic and inflammatory markers. Subjects received authentic (cases) or sham (controls) acupuncture for 6 weeks in combination with a low-calorie diet. In the following 6 weeks, they received the low-calorie diet alone. Subjects were assessed at the beginning, 6 and 12 weeks later. Heat shock protein (Hsps)-27, 60, 65, 70 antibody titers and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were also assessed. A significant reduction in measures of adiposity and improvement in lipid profile were observed in both groups, but the levels of anti-Hsp-antibodies decreased in cases only. A reduction in anthropometric and lipid profile in cases were sustained in the second period, however, only changes in lipid profile were observed in the control group. Anti-Hsp-antibodies and hs-CRP levels continued to be reduced in cases but in controls only the reduction in hs-CRP remained. Changes in anthropometric parameters, lipid profile, and anti-Hsp-antibodies were more evident in cases. Body acupuncture in combination with diet restriction was effective in enhancing weight loss and improving dyslipidemia.
Am J Chin Med. 2011;39(3):433-40.
Effects of auricular acupressure on weight reduction and abdominal obesity in Asian young adults: a randomized controlled trial.
Hsieh CH, Su TJ, Fang YW, Chou PH.
Source
Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Institute of Technology, Chia-Yi, Taiwan. chinghsiuh@yahoo.com
Abstract
The current study was designed to test the efficacy of auricular acupressure on weight reduction and changes of waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio. This study used a randomized design with one control group and one experimental group consisting of Asian young adults with a waist circumference ≥80 cm in the females and ≥90cm in the males. At completion of eight weeks of auricular therapy, the total sample size was 55 young adults who ranged in age from 18 to 20 years old. Each participant was treated weekly for ear acupressure in ten-minute sessions. Sessions continued for eight weeks wherein the control group received acupressure only while the experimental group received acupressure with the Japanese Magnetic Pearl on the ear acupoints. While both the control and treatment groups showed significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) to body weight and waist circumference after eight weeks of treatment, only the group treated with Japanese Magnetic Pearls showed decreased waist to hip ratio. Thus, auricular acupressure may be a beneficial addition to weight loss programs for young adults. Auricular acupressure is thus a reasonable option in the treatment of overweight and obesity in young adults.
PMID: 21598412 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Altern Ther Health Med. 2013 Mar-Apr;19(2):24-31.
Effects of body electroacupuncture on plasma leptin concentrations in obese and overweight people in iran: a randomized controlled trial.
Darbandi S, Darbandi M, Mokarram P, Owji AA, Zhao B, Ghayor-Mobarhan M, Abdi H, Saberfiroozi M, Nematy M, Safarian M, Parizadeh MR, Shakeri MT, Soukhtanloo M, Abbasi P, Salehmoghadam M, Hossein Dabbaghmanesh M, Ferns G.
Abstract
Background • The prevalence of obesity, a major public health problem, is increasing in many countries, including Iran. Leptin, a peptide hormone that is released from adipocytes, is a major factor in appetite regulation. Levels of plasma leptin increase with increased body fat mass (BFM). Research has found acupuncture to be effective both in weight loss and suppression of appetite. Although a few studies have reported the effect of body and ear acupuncture on leptin levels, researchers have performed few studies on the effect of body electroacupuncture in humans. Objective • The research team examined the effects of body electroacupuncture and a low-calorie diet on plasma leptin in obese and overweight individuals with an excess (phlegm-dampness or phlegm-heat) or deficiency (spleen/stomach qi deficiency or primary qi deficiency) pattern according to Chinese medicine. Design • The research team randomly assigned participants to one of two groups, intervention or control. Setting • This study occurred in the nutritional clinic at Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad, Iran. Participants • Participants were individuals (N = 86) between 18 and 65 years of age with body mass indexes (BMI) between 25 and 45 kg/m2. Intervention • The intervention group (n = 47) received actual electroacupuncture, and the control group (n = 47) received sham acupuncture. Both groups consumed a low-calorie diet for 6 weeks. Outcome Measures • The research team measured plasma leptin, BFM, body weight (BW), and BMI before and after treatment. Results • For participants in the intervention group with both the excess and the deficiency patterns, the research team found a significant reduction in plasma leptin (24.96%, P = .001) and BFM (8.29%, P = .001). In the control group, the team found a less significant reduction in leptin and BFM. The difference between the two groups was significant for leptin (P = .03) but not for BFM (P = .8). Conclusions • While body electroacupuncture with a low-calorie diet can reduce plasma leptin concentration, the mechanism will require further clarification.
PMID: 23594450 [PubMed - in process]
Acupunct Med. 2013 Mar 21. [Epub ahead of print]
Effects of electro-acupuncture on oestrogen levels, body weight, articular cartilage histology and MMP-13 expression in ovariectomised rabbits.
Qin Y, He J, Xia L, Guo H, He C.
Source
Rehabilitation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, , Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Electro-acupuncture (EA) treatment has been shown to decrease pain and improve the function of ovariectomised (OVX) rats with osteoarthritis (OA); however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
OBJECT:
We used OVX rabbits to replicate natural human menopausal processes and to evaluate whether EA could be used to prevent and treat postmenopausal OA.
METHODS:
The rabbits were randomly divided into four groups of eight: a normal control group (NC), an OVX group, an ERT group (oestrogen replacement therapy after OVX) and an EA group (EA therapy after OVX). After the interventions, all of the animals were killed. Serum oestrogen levels and body weight were measured. The transcription of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) mRNA was detected using reverse transcriptase-PCR. Modified Mankin scores were used for histological assessment. Expression of MMP-13 in cartilage was determined by immunohistochemistry.
RESULTS:
Both the EA group and the ERT group had increased serum oestrogen levels (p=0.028, p=0.037 respectively), as well as decreased expression of MMP-13 (p=0.000, p=0.000, respectively), relative to the OVX group. The body weight of the EA group was lower than that of the OVX group and the NC group (p=0.007), as well as the ERT group (p=0.010).
CONCLUSIONS:
EA could be a new method for preventing and treating postmenopausal OA by producing endogenous sex hormones that inhibit the expression of MMP-13 and cause weight loss with no side effects and a relatively low cost.
Arcuate nucleus of hypothalamus is involved in mediating the satiety effect of electroacupuncture in obese rats.
Fei Wang, Tian de R, Tso P, Han JS.
Source
Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
Abstract
Obesity is a major health problem in the world. Since effective remedies are rare, researchers are trying to discover new therapies for obesity, and acupuncture is among the most popular alternative approaches. This study investigated the anti-obesity mechanisms of EA, using a rat model of diet-induced obesity. After feeding with a high-fat diet for 9 weeks, a number of rats who gained weight that surpassed the maximal body weight of rats in the chow-fed group were considered obese and employed in the study. A 2 Hz EA treatment at the acupoints ST36/SP6 with the intensity increasing stepwise from 0.5-1-1.5 mA was given once a day for 30 min. Rats treated with EA showed significantly decreased food intake and reduced body weight compared with the rats in DIO and restraint group. EA treatment increased peptide levels of α-MSH and mRNA levels of its precursor POMC in the arcuate nuclear of hypothalamus (ARH) neurons. In addition, the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) content of α-MSH was elevated by EA application. ARH lesions by monosodium glutamate abolished the inhibition effect of EA on food intake and body weight. A non-acupoint stimulation did not show the benefit effect on food intake inhibition and body weight reduction compared with restraint and ST36/SP6 EA treatment. We concluded that EA treatment at ST36/SP6 acted through ARH to significantly inhibit food intake and body weight gain when fed a high-fat diet and that the stimulation of α-MSH expression and release might be involved in the mechanism.
Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2005 Jun;14(5):434-40.
Electroacupuncture in obese women: a randomized, controlled pilot study.
Hsu CH, Hwang KC, Chao CL, Chang HH, Chou P.
Source
Community Medicine Research Center and Institute of Public Health, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To compare the effects of electroacupuncture and sit-up exercise on reducing body weight (BW) and waist circumference (WC) among obese women.
METHODS:
A randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted from July 1, 2002, to June 30, 2003, in the outpatient department of Taipei Hospital, Taiwan. The subjects were 72 obese women, with WC>90 cm and body mass index (BMI)>30 kg/m2 and who had not received any other weight control maneuver within the prior 3 months. The subjects were randomly divided into groups A, B, and C. Group A (n=22) received electroacupuncture, group B (n=20) was assigned sit-up exercises, and group C (n=21) received no intervention. All three treatments lasted for 6 weeks. The measurements of BW, BMI, and WC were performed in the beginning and after 6 weeks. The data were compared and expressed as percent reductions.
RESULTS:
Electroacupuncture showed significantly greater percent reductions in BW (p=0.009, 0.004), BMI (p=0.008, 0.016), and WC (p=0.013, 0.006) compared with sit-up exercises or no intervention.
CONCLUSIONS:
In this pilot study, electroacupuncture treatment was more effective than situp exercise or no intervention in reducing BW, BMI, and WC.
J Med Assoc Thai. 2012 Dec;95 Suppl 12:S32-9.
Efficacy of auricular acupressure combined with transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for weight reduction in obese women.
Rerksuppaphol L.
Source
Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakhon Nayok, Thailand. lakkana_r@hotmail.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Obesity leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) and auricular acupressure (AA) are alternative treatments for weight reduction, however there is no study of the combined treatments.
OBJECTIVE:
To determine the efficacy of the combined treatment of TEAS and AA, compared with AA alone.
MATERIAL AND METHOD:
A prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted in 40 obese women, aged 21-60 years, 20 were randomly assigned to receive either TEAS+AA or AA for 8 weeks. TEAS was performed using electrodes attached to the 10 acupuncture points and were electrically stimulated with 0.2 ms pulses, at 40 Hz for 30 minutes per session. AA was performed using magnetic pellets attached to 3 auricular acupoints on each side. Self-pressure on the magnetic pellets 10 times per session, 3 sessions a day was assigned. Anthropometric parameters were obtained at the beginning and the end of the present study.
RESULTS:
Sixteen in the TEAS+AA and 13 in the AA group completed the present study. Weight and BMI were significantly decreased in TEAS+AA group compared to the AA group (1.91 vs. 0.42 kg and 0.76 vs. 0.18 kg/m2, respectively). After adjustment of the covariance, the treatment protocol was the only variance which had significant effect for weight reduction (F = 4.62; p = 0.04).
CONCLUSION:
The combined treatment of AA and TEAS achieved higher weight reduction than the single treatment of AA in obese women during an 8 week period.
The worst diet tip ever
File this one under frightening weight loss news
By Stephanie Castillo
2
File this under frightening weight loss news: People looking to lose up to 30 pounds in Beverly Hills are having tongue-patch surgery -- a procedure that involves sewing a piece of plastic the size of a postage stamp onto a person's tongue so she can't eat. We all know what sewing means, right? And plastic? IN OUR MOUTHS?
(Do you know that the average person eats 580 calories a day in snacks? Click here for 16 Ways To Curb Mindless Munching.)
The procedure was developed by Nikolas Chugay, MD, whose California clinic is currently the only one to offer the surgery in the United States. His "Miracle Patch" has yet to be approved by the FDA. But according to Dr. Chugay, this is a totally safe, non-invasive procedure. And yet, anyone who receives it is said to suffer from so much discomfort when trying to eat solid food that they're only able to consume liquids, reports Time magazine.
We can't even go into why else this procedure is problematic because we're still stuck on the whole sewing thing. But it does present an opportunity to remind you that not every weight loss plan out there is one you should follow. In fact, we have the 25 Worst Diet Tips right here. Granted, none of them require you to go under the knife, but chances are, you've followed more than a few of them -- and might still be now...
Acupuncture checks excess weight gain
Debarati S Sen, TNN | Sep 11, 2013, 12.00 AM IST
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Acupuncture checks excess weight gain
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While there are as many remedies on offer to lose that excess weight, there's one which isn't just part of traditional Chinese medicine but is also endorsed by the World Health Organisation and The United States National Institutes of Health: Acupuncture, a science that is able to address almost all the factors associated with being overweight. It does so by providing a multi-pronged approach to the weight-gain problem by restoring bodily functions to normality so to bring about an equilibrium and thereby, control the factors leading to obesity.
Reduces appetite, enhances energy
Obesity consultant Dr Amrapali Patil says that acupuncture can bring about weight loss by different mechanisms. "It can blunt craving for food, bringing about 'homoeostasis' in the body, thereby adjusting the 'milieu interieur' of the body to normality."
For instance, blood sugar dips are known to cause hunger pangs. The doctor explains, "When the blood sugar level is normal, there is no unhealthy increase in appetite. Acupuncture achieves this by enabling one to eat less by reducing requirement of food while enhancing the body's ability to effectively utilise the energy obtained from food consumed. This means that though appetite and food requirement decrease, one feels highly energetic and refreshed at all times."
Metabolism boost
The basal metabolic rate (BMR) of the body can be upped with the help of acupuncture. "So, while appetite decreases, energy is replenished and the body's metabolism actually increases. This creates a negative caloric balance and the weight gets yanked down," says Dr Patil.
More effective digestion
Acupuncture enables the digestive system to process food effectively.
Hormone regulation
Acupuncture regulates ghrelin and leptin, hormones associated with being overweight and obese.
Stress-buster
Being overweight causes stress, leading to wrong choices that lead to weight gain. Acupuncture releases endorphins ('happiness hormones') present in the body, resulting in a calming, tranquilising effect that brings about a feeling of well-being and positive mood elevation.
Aids liver function
It promotes functioning of liver to its optimal level. The liver is an organ that doesn't just aid metabolism but also is imperative to glycogen storage, decomposition of red bloof cells, plasma proteing synthesis, hormone production and detoxification. Dr Patil states,
"A regulated liver function means a proper metabolic rate and health at its best. This aids enormously in weight loss."
Acupuncture claims to:
- Reduce cravings
- Increase metabolism
- Reduce abdominal fat
- Improve insulin resistance
- Detox body
Complement Ther Med. 2014 Feb;22(1):21-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2013.10.002. Epub 2013 Oct 31.
The effects of auricular electroacupuncture on obesity in female patients - A prospective randomized placebo-controlled pilot study.
Schukro RP1, Heiserer C2, Michalek-Sauberer A3, Gleiss A4, Sator-Katzenschlager S3.
Author information
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Obesity is a chronic condition related to serious morbidity and mortality of increasing incidence and prevalence. Several studies show a significantly higher weight loss with acupuncture treatment. This is the first prospective, randomized, double-blinded study, testing the effects of auricular electroacupuncture on weight loss in obese female patients.
METHODS:
56 female obese patients (age>18, Body Mass Index, BMI>25) were randomized to receive either auricular acupuncture with electrical stimulation with a P-Stim(®) device (verum group, n=28) or placebo treatment with a P-Stim(®) dummy (n=28) for four days. Three auricular acupuncture points were chosen (hunger 18, stomach 87 and colon 91). The treatment was performed once a week for a period of six weeks. A follow-up visit was performed after 4 weeks. At each visit body weight, BMI (Body Mass Index) and body fat were measured.
RESULTS:
Relative reduction of body weight was significantly greater in the verum group (-3.73%; CI=-4.70 to -2.76) than in the placebo group (-0.70%; CI=-1.57 to +0.16; p<0.001) In addition we also observed a significant reduction of BMI (p<0.001) in the verum group (-3.62%; CI=-4.39 to -2.84) compared to placebo (-0.82%; CI=-1.55 to -0.10; p<0.001). No patient reported side effects related to acupuncture.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion electrical auricular acupuncture could be a safe, additive, non-pharmacological treatment in obese patients.
Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
KEYWORDS:
Auricular acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, Obesity
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014;2014:371475. doi: 10.1155/2014/371475. Epub 2014 Jun 16.
Acupoint-specific, frequency-dependent, and improved insulin sensitivity hypoglycemic effect of electroacupuncture applied to drug-combined therapy studied by a randomized control clinical trial.
Lin RT1, Tzeng CY2, Lee YC3, Chen YI4, Hsu TH4, Lin JG5, Chang SL6.
Author information
Abstract
The application of electroacupuncture (EA) to specific acupoints can induce a hypoglycemic effect in streptozotocin-induced rats, normal rats, and rats with steroid-induced insulin resistance. EA combined with the oral insulin sensitizer rosiglitazone improved insulin sensitivity in rats and humans with type II diabetes mellitus (DM). There are different hypoglycemic mechanisms between Zhongwan and Zusanli acupoints by EA stimulation. On low-frequency (2 Hz) stimulation at bilateral Zusanli acupoints, serotonin was involved in the hypoglycemic effect in normal rats. Moreover, after 15 Hz EA stimulation at the bilateral Zusanli acupoints, although enhanced insulin activity mainly acts on the insulin-sensitive target organs, the muscles must be considered. In addition, 15 Hz EA stimulation at the bilateral Zusanli acupoints has the combined effect of enhancing cholinergic nerve activity and increasing nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity to enhance insulin activity. Despite the well-documented effect of pain control by EA in many systemic diseases, there are few high-quality long-term clinical trials on the hypoglycemic effect of EA in DM. Combination treatment with EA and other medications seems to be an alternative treatment to achieve better therapeutic goals that merit future investigation.
| Acta Diabetol. 2014 Sep 14. [Epub ahead of print] Enhanced insulin sensitivity and acute regulation of metabolic genes and signaling pathways after a single electrical or manual acupuncture session in female insulin-resistant rats. Benrick A1, Maliqueo M, Johansson J, Sun M, Wu X, Mannerås-Holm L, Stener-Victorin E. Author information: 1Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 434, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden. Abstract AIM: To compare the effect of a single session of acupuncture with either low-frequency electrical or manual stimulation on insulin sensitivity and molecular pathways in the insulin-resistant dihydrotestosterone-induced rat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) model. Both stimulations cause activation of afferent nerve fibers. In addition, electrical stimulation causes muscle contractions, enabling us to differentiate changes induced by activation of sensory afferents from contraction-induced changes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Control and PCOS rats were divided into no-stimulation, manual-, and electrical stimulation groups and insulin sensitivity was measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp. Manually stimulated needles were rotated 180° ten times every 5 min, or low-frequency electrical stimulation was applied to evoke muscle twitches for 45 min. Gene and protein expression were analyzed by real-time PCR and Western blot. RESULTS: The glucose infusion rate (GIR) was lower in PCOS rats than in controls. Electrical stimulation was superior to manual stimulation during treatment but both methods increased GIR to the same extent in the post-stimulation period. Electrical stimulation decreased mRNA expression of Adipor2, Adrb1, Fndc5, Erk2, and Tfam in soleus muscle and increased ovarian Adrb2 and Pdf. Manual stimulation decreased ovarian mRNA expression of Erk2 and Sdnd. Electrical stimulation increased phosphorylated ERK levels in soleus muscle. CONCLUSIONS: One acupuncture session with electrical stimulation improves insulin sensitivity and modulates skeletal muscle gene and protein expression more than manual stimulation. Although electrical stimulation is superior to manual in enhancing insulin sensitivity during stimulation, they are equally effective after stimulation indicating that it is activation of sensory afferents rather than muscle contraction per se leading to the observed changes. | PMID: 25218925 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] | Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2014 Aug 1;307(3):R332-9. doi: 10.1152/ajpregu.00465.2013. Epub 2014 May 21.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016;2016:9365326. doi: 10.1155/2016/9365326. Epub 2016 Mar 9.
Effect of Laser Acupuncture on Anthropometric Measurements and Appetite Sensations in Obese Subjects.
Tseng CC1, Tseng A2, Tseng J3, Chang CH4.
Author information
Abstract
Purpose. A patient-assessor-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled crossover trial was performed to investigate the effectiveness of laser acupuncture on anthropometric measurements and appetite sensation in obese subjects. Methods. Fifty-two obese subjects were randomly assigned to either the laser acupuncture group or the sham laser acupuncture group. Subjects within each group received the relevant treatment three times a week for 8 weeks. After a two-week washout period, the subjects then received the treatment of the opposite group for another 8 weeks. BMI, body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference, hip circumference, and appetite sensations were measured before and after 8 weeks of treatment. Results. BMI, body fat percentage, WHR, waist circumference, and hip circumference decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in the laser acupuncture group compared to baseline but there was no decrease in those variables in the sham laser acupuncture group. Laser acupuncture significantly improved scores on the fullness, hunger, satiety, desire to eat, and overall well-being relative to the baseline (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Laser acupuncture is well tolerated and improves anthropometric measurements and appetite sensations in obese subjects.
Nutr Diabetes. 2016 May 2;6:e209. doi: 10.1038/nutd.2016.16.
Comparative evaluation of the therapeutic effect of metformin monotherapy with metformin and acupuncture combined therapy on weight loss and insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients.
Firouzjaei A1, Li GC2, Wang N1, Liu WX1, Zhu BM1.
Author information
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Obesity induces insulin resistance (IR), the key etiologic defect of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, an incidence of obesity-induced diabetes is expected to decrease if obesity is controlled. Although Metformin is currently one of the main treatment options for T2DM in obese patients, resulting in an average of 5% weight loss, adequate weight control in all patients cannot be achieved with Metformin alone. Thus, additional therapies with a weight loss effect, such as acupuncture, may improve the effectiveness of Metformin.Subjective:We designed this randomized clinical trial (RCT) to compare the effects of Metformin monotherapy with that of Metformin and acupuncture combined therapy on weight loss and insulin sensitivity among overweight/obese T2DM patients, to understand whether acupuncture plus Metformin is a better approach than Metformin only on treating diabetes. To understand whether acupuncture can be an insulin sensitizer and, if so, its therapeutic mechanism.
RESULTS:
Our results show that Metformin and acupuncture combined therapy significantly improves body weight, body mass index (BMI), fasting blood sugar (FBS), fasting insulin (FINS), homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), leptin, adiponectin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), resistin, serotonin, free fatty acids (FFAs), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) and ceramides.
CONCLUSIONS:
Consequently, Metformin and acupuncture combined therapy is more effective than Metformin only, proving that acupuncture is an insulin sensitizer and is able to improve insulin sensitivity possibly by reducing body weight and inflammation, while improving lipid metabolism and adipokines. As a result, electro-acupuncture (EA) might be useful in controlling the ongoing epidemics in obesity and T2DM.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016;2016:9651592. Epub 2016 Sep 22.
Acupuncture Alters Expression of Insulin Signaling Related Molecules and Improves Insulin Resistance in OLETF Rats.
Huang XY1, Zhang L1, Sun J2, Xu NG3, Yi W1.
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Abstract
To determine effect of acupuncture on insulin resistance in Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats and to evaluate expression of insulin signaling components. Rats were divided into three groups: Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, OLETF rats, and acupuncture+OLETF rats. Acupuncture was subcutaneously applied to Neiguan (PC6), Zusanli (ST36), and Sanyinjiao (SP6); in contrast, acupuncture to Shenshu (BL23) was administered perpendicularly. For Neiguan (PC6) and Zusanli (ST36), needles were connected to an electroacupuncture (EA) apparatus. Fasting blood glucose (FPG) was measured by glucose oxidase method. Plasma fasting insulin (FINS) and serum C peptide (C-P) were determined by ELISA. Protein and mRNA expressions of insulin signaling molecules were determined by Western blot and real-time RT-PCR, respectively. OLETF rats exhibit increased levels of FPG, FINS, C-P, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), which were effectively decreased by acupuncture treatment. mRNA expressions of several insulin signaling related molecules IRS1, IRS2, Akt2, aPKCζ, and GLUT4 were decreased in OLETF rats compared to SD controls. Expression of these molecules was restored back to normal levels upon acupuncture administration. PI3K-p85α was increased in OLETF rats; this increase was also reversed by acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture improves insulin resistance in OLETF rats, possibly via regulating expression of key insulin signaling related molecules.