The Effect of Auricular Acupoint Stimulation in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective To investigate the effect of auricular acupoint stimulation on overweight and obese adults. Methods We searched databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the PerioPath Index to Taiwan Periodical Literature. The modified Jadad scale was used to assess study quality. We investigated the effect of auricular acupoint stimulation on anthropometric measurements. Results Eighteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in our systematic review. Thirteen RCTs were pooled in a meta-analysis that revealed a significant reduction in body weight (BW) with a mean difference (MD) of -1.21 kg and a 95% confidence interval (CI) from -1.94 to -0.47 with a heterogeneity of I2 = 88%. Significant decreases in body mass index (BMI; MD: -0.57 kg/m2; 95% CI -0.82 to -0.33; I2 = 78%), body fat (BF; MD: -0.83%; 95% CI -1.43 to -0.24; I2 = 0%), and waist circumference (WC; MD: -1.75 cm; 95% CI -2.95 to -0.55; I2 = 87%) were also revealed. Conclusions This meta-analysis shows that auricular acupoint stimulation improves physical anthropometric parameters including BW, BMI, BF, and WC in overweight and obese adults. These methods are less effective on hip circumference and waist-to-hip ratio.