The endocrine system is responsible for hormonal functions in the body and produces thirty distinct hormones each of which has a very specific job to do. This system controls your physical growth, mood, hormone output, reproduction, mental functionality, and immune system. When not working properly you become more susceptible to disease and your ability to fight off infection is weakened. Endocrine glands and their functioning impact every area of your health.
The keystone of acupuncture and Oriental medicine has always been awakening the body’s natural intelligence to heal itself and restore balance to the system of energy pathways (called “meridians”) that cover the body. When the meridians within your body have become depleted or blocked, you can suffer from tiredness, infertility, weight gain, depression, chronic pain, digestive problems, hair loss, arthritis, and feeling chilled or to hot no matter the temperature. When treating a suspected endocrine condition with acupuncture and Oriental medicine, the acupuncturist seeks the root cause of the patient’s imbalance. The endocrine system is closely connected to the internal balance of the Yin energy and the Yang energy. Imagine that the Yang energy is like gasoline that fuels a car, and the Yin energy is the coolant for the car’s engine. Without the coolant, the engine overheats and begins to burn out. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine work to make sure the Yin and Yang are equal within the body restoring your essential internal balance. The root of the body’s energy in Oriental medicine is the Kidney meridian. Treatment used to strengthen the Kidney Meridian also restores nourishment to your endocrine glands.
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep and menstrual problems. Treatments take all symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy in your body, optimizing your health, restoring immune function and balancing the production and release of hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. Many patients benefit from an integrated Eastern and Western medical approach to endocrine health. The strong point of Western medicine is intervention in life-threatening illness, whereas the strong point of Eastern medicine is increased quality of life. Therefore it is optimal to have both Eastern and Western medicine options available for the most comprehensive care.
Endocrine Supporting Nutrients
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein are part of any healthy diet. Things to avoid are: Genetically Modified Foods (food containing GMOs). Buy organic food when possible. Wash all fruits and vegetables before consuming them. Eat wild caught fish and remove the skin before cooking. Eat lean cuts of meat. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise. Keep hydrated Water is the key to detoxifying the body. Never heat food in a plastic container. This includes covering with plastic wrap.
Finally, get acupuncture. Acupuncture can help improve the immune system and assist in the body’s detoxification therefor improving hormonal function and the balance of Yin and Yang.
