The technique is called psychological acupuncture, and has been shown to be successful in lowering food cravings for up to six months in people who are overweight or obese.
Psychological acupuncture also known as the emotional freedom technique (EFT), combines the gentle tapping on pressure points of regular acupuncture while also focussing on particular feelings and thoughts.
Dr Peta Stapleton, a psychologist at the Griffith University's School of Medicine, said the technique was painless and easy to learn.
Her research indicates the result of lowering food cravings started right after treatment and that it was long lasting. Food cravings significantly reduced after just a few, two-hour sessions and stayed stable at a follow-up done after six-months.
"Participants in the trial were surprised by how quickly the technique works - that it doesn't take a lot of time to eliminate food cravings they may have had for many years," Dr Stapleton said.
She said common cravings were for sweet carbohydrates such as cakes and candy or salty foods such as chips and crackers.
"Food cravings play a big role in people's food consumption and ultimately their body weight. If we can beat the cravings without the need for willpower or conscious control of behaviour, then weight loss is also possible."
While the study did not show any significant impact on body weight or body mass index (BMI) after six months, the results of a 12-month follow-up are still being analysed.
Dr Stapleton, who focuses her research in the management of eating disorders, said that some participants even forgot that they had a prior problem with food cravings until they were reminded at the six-month follow-up.
She said because the technique was more likely to be effective in the long-term because it helps over-ride emotional eating at a sub-conscious level.
Psychological acupuncture, has also been used to manage clinical issues such as post traumatic stress disorder, phobias and addictions.
The results of the study will be presented at the International Congress of Applied Psychology in Melbourne in July.
This is an area of study that may provide real benefits to overweight and obese individuals who are really struggling with food cravings and desires.
