Posted On Aug 06, 2022.

Hypnosis is a technique that practitioners may use to help people change unwanted thoughts or behaviors. Some evidence suggests that this method may be an effective strategy to help some individuals lose weight. However, more research is necessary to determine whether it is a beneficial long-term option.

Hypnosis typically involves a highly trained therapist bringing a person into a relaxed state using therapeutic words, phrases, or techniques. It may also involve guided relaxation, self-talk, visualization, or music. When a person is in this altered state of consciousness, they may have a heightened sense of focus in which their mind is more open to change.

Proponents suggest that these techniques enable a person to tap into resources within themselves that they cannot reach when fully conscious. Some research suggests that hypnosis is beneficial for weight loss. Certain individuals may find that hypnosis helps them make suitable dietary changes, eat fewer calories, and exercise more regularly.

In this article, we will discuss what hypnosis is, how it may work for weight loss, and other tips for maintaining a moderate weight.

According to the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH), a person is not under the control of the hypnotist but instead gains access to own their innate abilities. With a relaxed mindset, a person may be more receptive to a healthcare professional’s suggestions for lifestyle or dietary changes. Clinicians who use hypnosis may offer individuals help in achieving weight loss success.

Does it work? 

According to a 2021 review, hypnosis may be a safe and effective adjuvant treatment for assisting weight loss. A 2018 meta-analysis also suggests that hypnosis is very effective for short-term weight loss, although the authors acknowledge the lack of research on its long-term effects.

A 2020 study indicates that hypnosis may lead to weight loss and considerable changes in leptin levels in people with obesity. Leptin is a hormone that helps control food intake.

In a 2018 randomized control trialTrusted Source, regular self-hypnosis users reduced their calorie intake more significantly and lost more weight than those who did not use this technique. Those in the hypnosis group lost an average of 9.6 kilograms (kg) over a year compared with 5.6 kg among those in the control group. Individuals who learned how to use hypnosis but did not practice it regularly lost an average of 6.5 kg.

Although evidence suggests that hypnosis may provide short-term benefits for weight loss, scientists conclude that more research is necessary on the long-term effects of hypnosis as a possible treatment option for individuals with obesity.

Types and costs

Practitioners may be able to use hypnosis to help people bring about both psychological and physiological change in three main ways:

using mental imagery to help a person visualize themselves accomplishing their goals

presenting ideas or suggestions that are compatible with what a person desires

unconscious exploring to identify whether past events or experiences are causing a personal problem in making positive changes

Individuals can also learn the technique of self-hypnosisTrusted Source. Self-hypnosis is similar to mindfulness techniques and meditation.

The cost of hypnosis varies depending on which state a person lives in, insurance coverage, and the practitioner’s set fees. Most insurance companies cover 50–80% of the cost of individual therapy, but only if a person is receiving treatment from licensed professionals.

The ASCH provides an online search tool to help people find a professional certified in hypnosis.

What to expect

A hypnotist will clarify a person’s treatment goals and explain the process of hypnosis.

A 2018 meta-analytic review notes that people with obesity may receive hypnosis as a stand-alone treatment or alongside other forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

The practitioner will typically start with a hypnotic induction, a process that guides a person into a hypnotic state. Most inductions require the person to focus their awareness on an object or their own breathing. During the induction, the practitioner may use a soothing tone of voice and picturesque words or phrases to help a person feel relaxed.

Once a person has entered a relaxed state of mind, the principles of hypnosis indicate that they are more open to new ideas. At this point, the clinician will make suggestions and affirmations for achieving weight loss.

Benefits

In a 2018 randomized control trialTrusted Source, only habitual self-hypnosis was associated with greater weight loss. However, the practice did improve the participants’ satiety, levels of inflammation, and quality of life after 12 months.

The benefits of hypnosis for weight loss include helping a person boost their overall health and lower their risk of certain health conditions. These conditions may includeTrusted Source:

• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• high cholesterol
• type 2 diabetes
• stroke
• gallbladder disease
• sleep apnea
• depression

Considerations and risks

Hypnosis is a voluntary, generally safe, and potentially effective process that involves a person and a therapist working together to bring about positive changes.

Hypnosis works best for individuals who are willing to change and believe that hypnosis can help them reach their goals. A clinician cannot force hypnosis on a person or make them do something against their will. A risk of hypnosis is that it will not always work for everyone.

Also, it may be advisable for people with mental health complications, such as psychosis or a personality disorder, to avoid using hypnosis, as it may make the condition worse.

For the best results, the ASCH recommends that people interested in hypnosis choose a practitioner who is properly trained and licensed and has the right credentials.

Original Post: Can hypnosis help with weight loss?