Magnetic Bracelets & Weight Loss
In 2009, there are many advertisements for magnetic weight loss bracelets. To many, the idea of simply wearing something that makes you lose weight is a dream come true. The fact that the thing you are wearing is attractive is even more tempting. But do magnetic bracelets really cause weight loss?
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How Magnets Work
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A study conducted at the University of Washington discovered that one way magnets work is by influencing an individual's blood flow. It seems logical that in the area of weight loss, this enhanced blood flow will accelerate the metabolism, which causes more calories to be burned. Instructions that come with magnetic bracelets encourage the wearer to eat well and get daily exercise to speed along the weight loss process.
Origins of Magnetic Jewelry
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Wearing magnetic jewelry is not a new idea. Ancient records show that civilizations often used magnets to cure diseases, heal skin conditions and for all other sorts of health benefits. Cleopatra is always shown wearing a band around her forehead; this is actually a magnet and it is said that she wore it for beauty and youth.
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Placement of Magnetic Bracelets
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Use magnetic bracelets in a balanced fashion and in places where they touch your skin; wear one on each wrist or place one magnet somewhere down the center of your body. For example, put the north side of the magnet on your thyroid gland, which is below your Adam's apple and above your collar bone. This placement is said to get your metabolism working faster, thus you burn more calories. The magnetic bracelet is the most common weight loss magnet because your wrists contain major groupings of veins. Placing the magnet close to the major veins will directly speed up the flow of blood.
Other Magnetic Options
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There are other magnetic products that are comfortable and that you can use throughout the day. Examples of these are the magnetic insole for your shoes and round and rectangular magnets. There are even pillows and mattress pads that come with magnets.
The Correct Side of The Magnet
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The side of the magnet that touches your skin is very important. The north side of the magnet should be placed on your skin. Magnets are usually marked; the color red is often used to signify the north side of a magnet. If you don't know which side of the magnet is north, you can find out by placing a magnetic compass next to it. The north needle on the compass will be attracted to the south side of the magnet.
Possible Dangers of Magnetic Jewelry
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While you may be tempted to try out a magnetic bracelet to see how your body reacts to it, you should know that magnets can be dangerous to individuals with blood disorders, those who have pacemakers, liver or insulin pumps and those with a defibrillator. Pregnant women are also warned not to wear magnets.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Lauren Nelson
