Researchers from Japan, affiliated with the European Association for the Study of Obesity, explored a blend of ear-based acupressure using metal balls and a structured dietary program. Their findings indicate improvements in weight, body mass index, and abdominal fat when this method is paired with careful eating habits. The results were shared with colleagues at the European Obesity Congress.
The authors note a practical advantage: the use of metal balls rather than traditional needles can simplify the procedure. This approach does not demand specialized medical training, which could broaden access for patients seeking non-invasive support in weight management. The technique involves attaching small balls to six specific points on the outer ear. The intention is to stimulate nerves and bodily organs that influence appetite, fullness, and hunger signals, potentially aiding adherence to a healthier diet.
The study enlisted 81 male participants, all of whom were classified as overweight at the outset. Baseline assessments included weight, body mass index, and waist measurements. Over a three-month period, the participants wore devices consisting of ear balloons; these balloons were affixed with surgical tape to ensure consistent pressure across all six acupuncture points. The devices were replaced twice weekly during hospital visits. Alongside the acupressure regimen, participants followed a nutritionally balanced diet and maintained a daily diary to track progress and symptoms.
By the end of the trial, the group demonstrated tangible body composition changes. Average waist circumference decreased by 10.4 centimeters, dropping from an initial average of 98.4 centimeters to 88 centimeters. In addition, participants experienced an average reduction of four percent in total body fat. The combination of dietary adjustments with ear-based stimulation appears to contribute to meaningful, measurable outcomes for weight-related goals, at least within the parameters of this study.
Experts emphasize that while the results are encouraging, further research is needed to determine long-term effectiveness and to confirm whether similar benefits would be observed across broader populations. The study contributes to a growing field of investigations into non-traditional, non-pharmacological strategies for weight management that pair behavioral changes with adjunctive therapies. Markers of appetite regulation, satiety cues, and energy intake remain central to understanding how such methods can support sustainable weight loss. At present, the researchers advocate for integrating this approach into comprehensive weight-management programs rather than viewing it as a stand-alone solution. The findings are attributed to the team’s careful design, which included controlled application of pressure on six ear points and consistent dietary guidance, all monitored in a clinical setting. The report highlights the potential for transdisciplinary collaboration between medical professionals involved in obesity research and practitioners exploring complementary approaches to appetite control. This study thus adds to a broader conversation about accessible, low-risk interventions that can complement diet and exercise in the pursuit of healthier body composition. European Obesity Congress compilation, attributed to the Japanese study team