ScienceDaily (Apr. 26, 2010) — Psychological acupuncture has been shown to be
successful in reducing food cravings for up to six months in people who are overweight
or obese. The technique combines gentle tapping on pressure points while focusing on
particular emotions and thoughts.
Psychologist Dr Peta Stapleton, an academic title holder in Griffith University's School
of Medicine, said the technique was painless and easy to learn.
Her research also showed the impact on food cravings was almost immediate and long
lasting. Food cravings significantly reduced after just four, two-hour sessions and were
maintained at a six-month follow-up.
"Participants in the trial were surprised by how quickly the technique works -- that it
doesn't take a lot of time to eliminate food cravings they may have had for many
years," Dr Stapleton said.
She said common cravings were for sweet carbohydrates such as cakes and chocolate
or salty foods such as chips and savoury biscuits.
"Food cravings play a big role in people's food consumption and ultimately their body
weight. If we can beat the cravings without the need for willpower or conscious control
of behaviour, then weight loss is also possible."
While the study did not show any significant impact on body weight or body mass
index (BMI) after six months, the results of a 12-month follow-up are still being
analysed.
Dr Stapleton, who specialises in the management of eating disorders, said some
participants had actually forgotten they had a previous problem with food cravings
until they were reminded at the six-month follow-up.
She said because the technique helps over-ride emotional eating at a sub-conscious
level, it was more likely to be effective in the long-term.
Psychological acupuncture, also known as the emotional freedom technique (EFT),
has also been used to manage clinical issues such as post traumatic stress disorder,
phobias and addictions.
The results of the study will be presented at the International Congress of Applied
Psychology in Melbourne in July.
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