In a culture obsessed by thin bodies, obesity rates among adults have skyrocketed in the past decade, increasing by 60 percent (American Public Health Association). As Americans spend more than $33 billion annually on weight-loss products and services, most diet fads bring only short-term solutions. As January is Lose Weight and Feel Great Month, acupuncture and taiji are a great alternative for shedding those extra pounds and keeping them off. Plus these two remedies have only good side-effects!

When attempting to diet, many people experience withdrawal, or cravings, due to a lack of endorphins. The desire to eat stimulates a dieter's urge to binge. This is one reason why diets often cause people to gain more weight: They do not address cravings. Acupuncture and taiji counterbalance cravings by releasing endorphins in the brain, which actually alleviate the withdrawal symptoms that many dieters experience and eventually succumb to.

Over-eating can also be caused by stress, which increases cortisol levels in the body. This increase in cortisol can alter metabolism, thus causing stressed people to eat more and gain weight. As with cravings, the endorphins released by acupuncture and the gentle motions of taiji also help reduce stress, which can reduce the need to overeat. Both taiji and acupuncture can stimulate the hypothalamus. This induces weight loss because the hypothalamus regulates thyroid and hormone levels, which in turn regulate metabolism.

Because taiji regulates the body internally, it is useful in balancing eating disorders of all kinds. Taiji's relaxation and focus of intentions will reinforce healthier eating habits, while acupuncture will help reduce cravings. The exercise benefits of taiji are weight bearing, building strength and flexibility, and improved balance and gracefulness in movement. Adding a taiji class can also refresh and enhance one's exercise routine.

By now, most of us know that the quick and easy weight loss promised by various diets is wishful thinking alone. Too often, the weight is gained back more quickly than it was taken off. With acupuncture and regular taiji practice, you will lose weight and feel great all year long.