Why is Watching Cholesterol Important?
Keeping an eye on our cholesterol levels is essential for heart health and overall blood flow. While cholesterol is essential for bodily functions, too much of the wrong kind is bad. It comes in different forms in our body: low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which are sticky and clog our arteries, and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) which are not sticky and actually help to reduce cholesterol levels.
Electroacupuncture (EA)
Recent laboratory research has shown us that electroacupuncture (EA) in particular can play an interesting role in aiding us along the path of balancing good health and good food. Researchers measured plasma cholesterol levels and how they were affected when needling one particular point, ST40 – Fenglong (Stomach 40), in combination with electroacupuncture.
Point ST40
The experiment showed that EA on ST40 successfully downregulated LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides and other cells related to inflammation. (LINK) This is good news and helps us to understand a little more about the actions of some of the points we use to treat patients. As well as offering options for people beyond prescription medications.
This point is located on the lower leg, midway between the back of the knee (the popliteal crease) and the lateral ankle bone (the lateral malleolus). It is two fingerbreadths lateral to the shin bone (the anterior crest of the tibia).
What Does the ST40 Point Mean?
In Chinese medicine, this point’s main function is to transform phlegm and dampness, and it is often used in the clinic if the following symptoms are seen – phlegm and fullness in the chest, coughing, obesity, hypertension, depression, dizziness, vertigo, mucous, and swelling, to name a few.
Acupuncture and ST40
Acupuncturists love this point and it feels quite nice to have it needled, so the next time you visit your acupuncturist ask about Stomach 40 and you can add one more arrow into your quiver of health. It is also possible to massage this point at home. First, locate the point – measure halfway between your knee joint and the outside ankle bone and then find two fingerbreadths from the shin bone. Grab your calf with both hands and press your thumbs into the muscle. Make a circular motion with varying pressure for as long as it’s comfortable and repeat.
For good health, balance is important and acupuncture can help. It can be an important addition to maintaining good health as we also alter our lifestyle and focus our energy on stability and change that is manageable, sustainable and enjoyable!
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