Acupuncture has been commonly used to help the following endocrinological disorders:

 

Diabetes (Type II)

Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

 

Evidence:

In one review published in 2019 at Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, acupuncture has been shown to reduce fast blood glucose, HBA1C level. This study includes a total of 21 studies, which comprised a total of 1,943 participants, so the results are very convincing, Acupuncture can also help for complications of diabetes such as diabetes nephropathy, diabetes retinopathy and diabetes peripheral neuropathy.

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Mechanism:

The mechanism study has shown that acupuncture and Chinese herb medicine can help diabetes in multiple levels. They can increase the activity of SOD, GSH-px, and inhibiting the level of MDA, NO, and NOS; reducing the expression of TGF-β1 and TβRI in renal cortex and upregulating the expression of Smad7 and IκBα; up-regulating the expression of IRS-1/−2, p85 in liver, skeletal muscle and adipose tissue; downregulation of MMP-9, CD36 and PPARγ in macrophages.

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Reference:

1. Chen C, Liu J, Sun M, Liu W, Han J, Wang H, Acupuncture for type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 ;36:100-112.

2. Tang XM, Guan J. Effect of acupuncture combined with conventional drug on type 2 diabetes mellitus. Renming Junyi (People's Military Surgeon). 2013(09):1039-1040.

3. Yang QY, Liu CH, Wu YQ, Li B. Acupuncture combined with Liuwei Dihuang Pill for the treatment of 80 cases of type 2 diabetes with renal Yin deficiency. Henan Zhongyi (Henan Traditional Chinese Medicine). 2015;35(3):573-575.

4. Chen X, Huang J, Li P, et al. Effects of alcohol alkaloids on hypoglycemic and oxidative stress in diabetic mice. Asia-Pacific Trad Med. 2012; 8:24-25.

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                              Our Special Approach

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 It often takes several complementary treatment methods to effectively reduce symptoms and increase quality of life. Depending on the unique situation of each patient, a multi-pronged approach utilizing alternative medicine, lifestyle adjustments, and prescription medications may be needed.

Those living with diabetes should make efforts to maintain a healthy weight, get plenty of daily exercise, eat a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and monitor their blood sugar levels. Taking part in activities that help them manage stress such as yoga, meditation, massage, and participating in enjoyable hobbies.

While diabetes cannot be cured, the risk factors and symptoms can be reduced and it’s possible to live a full and active life free of prescription medication, less complications.