Effect of Laser Acupoints on Hormonal Changes and Visceral Obesity in Postmenopausal Women: Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: There are numerous concerns that women have regarding menopause. The purpose of this study was to identify any changes in hormone levels or visceral fat that laser acupuncture could alleviate in postmenopausal women. Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 40 menopausal women aged from 50 to 65 years with visceral obesity, body mass index (BMI) > 30 Kg/m2, and waist-tohip ratio (WHR) > 0.8. All cases were classified into two groups: Group A was given laser acupuncture in addition to traditional lifestyle change in a low-calorie diet and aerobic exercise, and Group B received traditional treatment only. Results: Pre-intervention (weight, BMI, waist circumference, WHR, serum insulin, and satiety-hunger zone) were insignificantly different in both groups (P > 0.05); in contrast to Group B, Group A experienced a substantial decrease in post-intervention (P < 0.05). The satiety zone was markedly lower at post-intervention in Group A compared to Group B (P < 0.05). After-intervention BMI, weight, WHR, waist circumference, and serum insulin were significantly lower than pre-intervention values in both groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Laser acupoints were associated with an improvement in visceral fat and serum insulin levels in postmenopausal women, demonstrating reduced satiety and increased hunger.