Effects of Acupuncture Electro Muscle Stimulation on Body Composition in Overweight Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of acupuncture electro muscle stimulation on body composition in overweight women. A study experimental with pre- and post-test assessments was conducted on 30 overweight women aged 18–25 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 25–30 kg/m². Participants were allocated into two groups: group 1, which received acupuncture electro muscle stimulation targeting the biceps, triceps, abdominals, hamstrings, quadriceps, and gastrocnemius, and group 2, which performed the same physical exercise without acupuncture electro muscle stimulation. The intervention was administered three times per week for 15 minutes per session over 8 weeks. Intensity training consisted of weight training performed at a moderate intensity of 60-70% of maximum capacity, performed in 4 sets, with approximately 1 minute of recovery between sets. The exercises used were exercises to train the biceps, triceps, chest, abdominals, and quadriceps muscles. Body fat percentage was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), while free fatty acid levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed using paired t-tests. Test for differences in body fat in group 1 (p=0.022), group 2 (p=0.248). Test for differences in BMI in group 1 (p=0.001), group 2 (p=0.137). Test for differences in free fatty acids in group 1 (p=0.014), group 2 (p=0.126). Acupuncture electro muscle stimulation during exercise significantly reduced body fat and BMI, and increased free fatty acid levels compared with controls (p < 0.05). Acupuncture electro muscle stimulation combined with physical exercise may serve as an effective alternative approach to improve body composition in overweight women. However, diet, physical activity outside the intervention, and sleep patterns can influence body composition and should be controlled for or recognized as major limitations.