ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the difference in the regulating effect of electroacupuncture on serum insulin (Ins) and fat consumption between male and female simple obesity rat and the possible mechanism of its action.Methods A rat model of simple obesity was made by induction with sodium glutamate. The rats were randomized into model and electroacupuncture groups (male and female), 10 rats each. A normal group of 10 rats (male and female) was established as a control. Points Quchi, Zhongwan, Guanyuan, Housanli, Fenglong and Sanyinjiao were selected in the electroacupuncture group. Stimulation with a low frequency of 2 Hz was provided after needle insertion. The treatment was given once daily for 28 consecutive days. Serum Ins content, and greater omentum, pericardiac and perirenal fat weights were measured in the male and female groups of rats before and after electroacupuncture intervention. The comparisons were made.Results Serum Ins content, and greater omentum, pericardiac and perirenal fat weights were significantly lower in the electroacupuncture male and female groups of rats than in the model male and female groups of rats (P<0.01) and also in the electroacupuncture male group of rats than in the electroacupuncture female group of rats (P<0.05).Conclusions Electroacupuncture has different degrees of weight-reducing effect in both male and female obesity rats. The reducing effect on serum Ins content, and greater omentum, pericardiac and perirenal fat weights is better in male obesity rats.