About Hypnosis and Weight Loss

Hypnosis is used for different reasons from addressing emotional problems to dealing with addiction to drugs, alcohol and gambling. Suggestive hypnosis guides a patient into a relaxed state that helps their mind reach a level that is impossible to access when the patient is completely aware of their surroundings. Professionals have been using hypnosis for year to address weight loss.

History

Hypnosis has been used for many years to help patients control pain, gastrointestinal issue, and clear up skin problems. In 1957 the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis began studying the effects of hypnosis on weight loss and they published their study in 1985. Hypnosis was approved by the American Medical Association in 1958 to help patients lose weight, stop smoking, manage stress, increase self esteem, and reduce physical pain.

Procedure

Hypnosis can help patients adjust certain behavioral traits. Only a licensed professional should use hypnosis. The patient that is receiving hypnosis is still completely in control of himself or herself, as they simply relax and open the subconscious mind. Hypnosis is a temporary change of consciousness, and is not magic. The patient will need to have regular visits to the hypnotherapist to receive the benefits of the treatment. According to a study conducted by Stanford University, 10 to 15 percent of people cannot be hypnotized.

Results

Does hypnosis work for weight loss? The best way to address this question is to examine the reported results. ABC news published a story in 2005 about a woman who was able to shed 95 pounds by using hypnosis. The woman was frustrated by traditional weight loss methods and weighing over 220 pounds carrying around the extra weight was causing health issues, so deciding to visit a hypnotist was the obvious next choice. Embracing a two part hypnosis program allowed her to lose 95 pounds. 97 percent of all people who are hypnotized to assist with weight loss receive positive results.