EAT BEFORE
Two hours before your acupuncture session, you should eat. You don’t need to eat anything big but it is recommended to eat something light. Eating will help when you go through your session. This will prevent you from being distracted from hunger and prevent lightheadedness or even fainting especially if you’re going to be there for about an hour.
WEAR LOOSE CLOTHES
Try to wear loose and comfortable clothes when you go to your appointment. This will help with the treatment process because your acupuncturist can easily place the needles on your body. It also depends on the type of treatment but if it’s your first time, it’s better to wear loose and comfortable clothes. Also because the treatment has you staying still for a period of time, it’s better to have some comfortable clothing to reduce discomfort.
DON’T DRINK TOO MUCH CAFFEINE BEFORE
Don’t drink too much caffeine before you’re about to go to your acupuncture treatment. If you need a lot of caffeine, drink it two hours before your appointment. This is because caffeine is a stimulant and will influence your fight-or-flight response (you will be anxious). Also, your acupuncturist would like you to feel relaxed and comfortable to have the most effective treatment. It’s also safer because your acupuncturist wouldn’t want you to move too much when they are applying acupuncture needles.
DON’T DRINK ALCOHOL
It’s highly recommended that you don’t drink alcohol before you go to your acupuncture session. Even though alcohol can help you feel relaxed, it won’t be beneficial and even dangerous if you’re heavily intoxicated. Because alcohol is a depressant, your body will be numb to pain. By doing this, you may not be able to correctly tell your acupuncturist how you feel when they ask you questions about your health. In addition, you may not be able to tell if you’re feeling irritation in your skin when your acupuncturist applies the needles. This can lead to irritation later on and a reduction in the effectiveness of the treatment. Alcohol can also raise your blood sugar level.
REMEMBER MEDICAL HISTORY
If you have anything your acupuncturist should know especially if it is related to your diabetes, you should tell them. It will really help them determine the best treatments for you. It’s important because sometimes one of the treatments may not work well with you and the diabetic medication you’re taking right now. For safely, it’s recommended to bring your medical history or consult with health professionals if acupuncture can be used as a complementary treatment for your diabetes.
DON’T BE NERVOUS
You might feel a little nervous especially if it is your first acupuncture or even scared of needles. It’s going to be okay. You’ll be in good hands. Take things slowly. Don’t worry about taking your time in answering any questions your acupuncturist gives or even how scared you are about needles. Our acupuncturists are here to help you and will gladly hear you out. By doing this, it will help you get the safest and most effective acupuncture treatment.