Chiropractic treatment is a type of complementary medicine that is largely associated with improving the mobility and function of the back through manual manipulation of the spine. However, many people do not realize that in addition to this, chiropractors can also offer care relating to other aspects of well-being, including weight loss.
Obesity is a huge problem across much of the western world, and the United States is no exception. Statistics from the CDC show that more than a third of Americans are obese, and that number is predicted to rise. Several factors are regularly blamed for this shocking figure, including:
Regardless of the cause of obesity, the fact remains that it poses a serious health risk for those affected by it. Obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, stroke and heart disease are among the leading causes of preventable death, and people who are obese can expect to pay around $1,500 more annually in medical costs, compared to someone of a healthy weight.
There is no denying the fact that for most of us, losing weight is seriously hard work. With thousands of diets, supplements, meal-replacement drinks and work out plans out there, trying to find a way to lose weight that works for you can be overwhelming. Nevertheless, experts all agree that there is no substitute for a healthy, balanced diet and plenty of exercise. Whether you are just starting your weight loss journey, or if you have already lost some weight and have hit a plateau where nothing you do seems to shift any more, support from a qualified and experienced chiropractor could help.
Chiropractors are alternative medical practitioners who are committed to improving patient physiology in a completely natural way. A great chiropractor has spent a great time of time studying the systems of the body and learning how these can be improved without the use of manufactured drugs and surgeries. While some focus on spinal alignment alone, others, like the chiropractors here at Valley Spinal Care, are committed to the full body wellness of our clients. This means that while we offer spinal alignment, we can also provide rehabilitative exercise, nutrition counselling and massage service which will all have a positive effect on your overall health and wellbeing.
Regular chiropractic adjustments work by relieving pressure on the spine that could be causing slight misalignments in the vertebrae (known as subluxations). When a subluxation occurs, the body has a stress-based response on the nervous system. Muscles may spasm, and bones and nerves will seize up. The nervous system controls every function in the body. When it is compromised, mixed communication signals between your brain and body can cause the systems in the body (such as the digestive system) to function improperly, and this can make it much more difficult to lose weight. Aligning the spine correctly has been shown to help the body absorb essential nutrients required in the weight loss process.
Chiropractors are also educated in the science of nutrition, and can work with you to create a healthy, balanced diet based on your height, weight, medical condition and lifestyle. This will ensure that you are getting enough food to keep your energy levels up, and ensure you are not left hungry. We may also suggest herbal supplements to help you meet your nutritional needs.
While diet is the biggest part of the battle when it comes to weight loss, regular exercise is also important. It will help you tone up as you lose weight, which in turn will help with any areas of loose skin. However, most importantly, it will help improve your fitness and heart health, which will benefit your overall wellbeing.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly of all, a chiropractor is someone who is firmly on your side when it comes to your weight loss. Trying to lose weight is especially difficult if you are doing it alone, and we will support and encourage you every step of the way, and help you stick at your plan until you reach optimal health.
