Hypnosis and Weight Loss Essay -- Hypnotize Internet Health Papers

Hypnosis and Weight Loss Hypnosis has many practical uses, and these days it is becoming increasingly popular as a method of behavior modification. The Internet contains many advertisements for self-help programs that use hypnosis to reduce stress, quit smoking, or lose weight. In the area of hypnosis and weight loss, there are many web sites for both products and services for sale that promise to help anyone lose weight. Hypnosis uses suggestions to change a person's behavior and eating habits in order to facilitate weight loss. What are the expected outcomes? There are many different outcomes expected from this type of hypnotic treatment. Most vendors of hypnosis specify that it's purpose is not only lose weight but to also maintain that ideal weight. Some companies also promise that hypnosis will stop cravings for unhealthy foods, such as foods high in salt or fat and also fried foods. http://www.clauser.com/announce3.html Through hypnotic suggestion, the person will learn how to eat healthy and may also become physically fit. Basically, the person becomes subconsciously motivated to eat better food and to become physically active. http://www.biocentrix.com/hypnosis/wghtplan.htm How Does Hypnosis work? There are many different forms of hypnosis used to control weight. A very popular method is the use of hypnotizing tapes. DreamLab, a web site selling these tapes, describes the procedure, and advises customers to start the tape when they go to bed. They claim that the tape contains both music and instructions that "lull you into the right mood." http://www.dream-lab.com/noweight.html While a person is in this mood, they are open to changes in their attitudes about eating habits and exercise through the suggestion of dream i... ...thard-Morris. "Effectiveness of Hypnosis as an Adjunct to Behavioral Weight Management." Journal of Clinical Psychology 41.1 (1985): 35-41. Buckingham, Carol W. "Hypnotherapy and the Behavioral Aspects of Obesity." Occupational Health Nursing April 1980: 20-22. Cochrane, G. "Hypnosis and Weight Reduction: Which is the Cart and Which is the Horse?" American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 35.2 (1992): 109-118. Eldredge, K.L., et al. "The Effects of Extending Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder Among Initial Treatment Nonresponders." International Journal of Eating Disorders 21.4 (1997): 347-352. Vanderlinden, J. and W. Vandereycken. "The (Limited) Possibilities of Hypnotherapy in the Treatment of Obesity." American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 36.4 (1994): 248-257.