About Ear Stapling Diets

Ear stapling has been around for a long time as a method to lose weight. It is drawn from the acupuncture theory, which identifies acupuncture points in the ear requiring certain areas to be punctured in order to invoke weight loss.

The ear stapling diet starts by inserting a small steel staple between specific acupuncture points in the ear; generally in the inner cartilage region. The staple then provides pressure to those points that lead to the stomach, which sends a signal to the brain telling it the stomach is full, thereby eliminating cravings.

Only one ear is required to be stapled, although some people have both ears done. Once the staple is placed in the ear, it can remain in there from two to six months, depending on how long you want to leave it in. People having this procedure done have said that it is similar to getting your ears pierced. As of 2009, the ear staple procedure can cost anywhere from $60 to $85.

The average weight loss associated with ear stapling is around two to five pounds per week, although there are no scientific studies to prove this. This procedure has also been effective in reducing hot flashes, sugar cravings, heartburn and migraines. More weight loss occurs when paired with a healthy diet and exercise.

Ear stapling does not generally require any qualifications. Practitioners are not required to have any medical training. There are many risks associated with ear stapling; one of them being infection. If the staple is left in the ear for a long amount of time and not properly cleaned, you can get an infection in the outer ear that is not only painful but can cause permanent scarring. Another risk of ear stapling is that the staple can fall out and possibly enter the inner ear causing damage to the ear and eardrum.

The practice of ear stapling led to many counterfeit practices which opened up in certain areas. These unlicensed and untrained people did not need any medical training to do the procedure. In 2006, the state medical board of Mississippi ordered the closing of 14 businesses offering ear stapling after there were reports of people getting serious infections from the procedure. This then led to the decision in Mississippi that ear stapling is considered acupuncture, which can only be performed by licensed physicians.

If you want to get ear stapling done, make sure you find a qualified practitioner or talk with your doctor for information and advice.

"Ear Stapling to Lose Weight." Healthy Women's Healthy Living Goals.
Andrew Weil, MD, "Ear Stapling Acupuncture for Weight Loss." DrWeil.com
"Ear Stapling Review." Diet Spotlight.