The allure of quick and easy weight loss solutions is strong, and the market is flooded with products promising miraculous results. Among these are lymphatic drainage earrings, often marketed as a way to shed pounds effortlessly. This article explores the claims surrounding these earrings, examines the scientific evidence (or lack thereof), and discusses effective and safe weight loss strategies.
What are Lymphatic Drainage Earrings?
These earrings are typically marketed with claims of promoting weight loss through various mechanisms, such as stimulating acupressure points, improving metabolism, and aiding lymphatic drainage. Some are magnetic, while others incorporate materials like Austrian Quartz or Rhinestones.
A quick search reveals various types of "lymphatic" earrings, including:
- "Lymphatic fashion oval earrings"
- Austrian Quartz Radiance Weight Loss Earrings
- Rhinestone Radiance Weight Loss Earrings
These products are sold under the pretense that they assist in weight loss by impacting metabolism, hunger and satiety, and circulation.
How Do They Supposedly Work?
Magnetic rings, bracelets, and earrings are sold under the pretense that they assist in weight loss by impacting metabolism, hunger and satiety, and circulation,” says Michelle Cardel, PhD, RD, associate director of the Center for Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville.
Read also: Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Right for You?
These devices are “purported to increase your metabolism through the north pole of the magnet,” Dr. Cardel says. A fast or “high” metabolism allows you to burn more calories at rest and when you exercise.
Some people also suggest that the rings and bracelets can be used in combination with acupressure,” an alternative therapy technique, based on the idea that stimulating certain points on the body will lead to changes within the body, Cardel says.
The lymphatic system consists of organs, vessels and tissues that help keep a healthy balance of fluids throughout the body and protect against infection.
Lack of Scientific Evidence
Despite the enticing claims, there is no solid scientific evidence to support the use of lymphatic drainage earrings for weight loss. Fact-checkers and medical experts agree that these products are essentially weight loss gimmicks.
- Lead Stories reported that there was no evidence magnetic jewelry helps people achieve significant weight loss.
- Agence France-Presse stated that "'Acupuncture' slimming earrings [are] not science-based."
- Africa Check found "no evidence magnetic ‘lymph detoxification’ earrings make you thinner, or in any way affect your health."
- Michelle Cardel, PhD, RD, says, "There is zero evidence to suggest that magnetic rings, or similar magnetic devices, aid in weight loss."
While some studies have explored the potential of noninvasive electromagnetic brain stimulation for weight loss, these methods are very different from simply wearing magnetic jewelry.
Read also: Understanding Lymphatic Massage
Effective Weight Loss Techniques
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), weight loss can be achieved by a combination of:
- Setting a realistic goal
- Engaging in a reduced calorie, nutritionally balanced eating plan
- Regular physical activity
- Other behavior changes to help you keep on track with your goals
It is generally recommended for adults to engage in moderate-intensity aerobic activity for 150 minutes each week, but to lose weight you’ll likely need more or to cut calorie intake. Cardel recommends working with your doctor to create an individualized weight loss plan.
Potential Downsides of Magnetic Jewelry
While lymphatic drainage earrings may seem harmless, there are potential risks to consider:
- Interference with Medical Imaging: Wearing acupressure magnets (or any magnet) can be very harmful or compromise test results if you have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test. The possibility of creating a magnetic projectile, combined with risk to the machine are why there are very strict rules regarding magnets in the scan room.
- Interaction with Medical Devices: Magnetic rings may also be harmful to people who wear devices such as pacemakers, which regulate heart rhythm. Speak with your doctor if you have any medical devices before trying any magnetic jewelry.
- Choking Hazard: Any kind of small magnet, including magnetic jewelry, may pose a hazard to small children if swallowed.
Read also: Explore the advantages of lymphatic drainage massage