Many patients I’ve worked with, as well as my peers, have expressed their desire to get rid of their ‘muffin top’. Granted, this often stems from aesthetic reasons, but the health implications behind having excess body fat should not be ignored too. Our body has two primary types of fat: subcutaneous fat (the pinchable, jiggly fat under the skin) and visceral fat (deep fat that surrounds the organs and is not as visible from the outside). Visceral fat is sometimes referred to as ‘active fat’ because not only do these fat cells store energy, they produce inflammatory markers like TNF alpha and Interleukin-6. Because of that, excess visceral fat is dangerous and increases our risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other diseases—type 2 diabetes, heart conditions, hypertension, and even obstructive sleep apnea (1).
Now, calculating exact visceral fat levels is slightly tricky. Since it cannot be directly seen or felt, the only accurate way to measure visceral fat is through an MRI or CT scan, which is not routinely done unless for purposes of clinical research. However, you can get a rough estimate by measuring your waist size. In Asia, a waist circumference of over 80cm in women and 90cm in men is an indication of abdominal obesity or excess visceral fat (2).
With the ongoing gym closures and new stay home measures, an increasing number of individuals may be worried about potential weight gain and their health due to a lack of physical activity. Fret not, as there is a solution. Introducing ReduStim, a medical device specifically targeted at losing stubborn visceral fat and reducing waist circumference.
What is ReduStim, and how does it work?
Based on a technology known as BioStimology, ReduStim uses low frequency BioMagnetic fields to stimulate fat lipolysis. It works by opening up calcium channels and stimulating calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, inducing muscle contraction in smooth and striated muscle. This imperceptible muscle contraction then induces energy consumption in the form of ATP, which calls for natural lipolysis — the breakdown of adipose sites from visceral and subcutaneous fat. This is a non-invasive, entirely safe and natural process where the breakdown of fat is obtained by a natural biological stimulation. It is also part of the energy expenditure cycle; similar to if physical activity was performed but without any muscle fibre extension.
Moreover, the excess ATP produced by this stimulation is eliminated by the body through the lymphatic drainage system, in the same manner after a workout. What’s special about ReduStim is that unlike other body contouring treatments like CoolSculpting which reduces subcutaneous body fat through fat freezing, ReduStim has the ability to reach deep into the abdomen and target deep visceral fat—something most body contouring treatments are unable to.
Why is this so? Well, that’s because one ReduStim treatment session alone takes up about 30-40% of an individual’s total energy consumption. So for the average female who consumes about 2,000 kcal a day, ReduStim burns about 800 kcal—enough to have a strong implication on visceral fat.
Is ReduStim really proven effective? Where’s the evidence?
ReduStim may be relatively new in the market, however, the mode of action of BioStimology isn’t based on rocket science. First, let’s address how the BioMagnetic fields can trigger calcium release. Several international studies have reported that stimulation of ATP membranes associated with calcium is possible in the presence of weak alternating magnetic fields (less than 5 Gauss). ReduStim uses magnetic fields oscillating from 0 to 4 Gauss.
Next, clinical results over the past 15 years have so far been very encouraging, demonstrating a reduction in not only visceral fat, but also some reduction in subcutaneous fat and improvements in fatty liver and blood cholesterol.
In a 2012 study (3), participants who underwent 12 ReduStim treatment sessions showed an average reduction of 6cm in waistline, 8% reduction in visceral fat, 4% reduction in subcutaneous fat and 17-18% reduction in ASAT and ALAT transaminases. It’s also worth noting the effects of ReduStim on fertility due to fat loss. One particular study (4) on women undergoing IVF found improvements in ovarian response to stimulation and embryology. This was in tandem with average reduction of:
- 5.45kg in weight
- 6% BMI
- 7cm in waistline
What does the treatment process look like?
At Veritas, we offer ReduStim Static, where the treatment is carried out on a bed with no physical effort required on the patient’s part. The patient slips into a larger-than-life body suit where electromagnetic waves are emitted through the suit to induce lipolysis. This 45-minute treatment is completely painless; some of my patients even fall asleep!
Are you a suitable candidate for ReduStim?
ReduStim is suitable for anyone who wishes to shed excess visceral abdominal fat and reduce its associated health risks, so long as you are not:
- Pregnant
- Wearing a pacemaker
- Suffering from serious illness
- Suffering from skin conditions or skin injuries
I would also like to add that if you are looking for a quick fix that involves minimal dietary or exercise discipline, then ReduStim probably won’t be a miracle transformation. In order to obtain realistic results, you are highly encouraged to commit to 12 sessions (spread over 4-6 weeks) and make lifestyle adjustments at the same time, such as regular exercise and a careful diet. As with any fat loss treatment program, lifestyle adjustments are cardinal, and ReduStim is no exception.
Can you combine ReduStim with other body contouring treatments?
Certainly. Since ReduStim primarily targets visceral fat around the abdominal area, I recommend combining it with other body contouring treatments like CoolSculpting for subcutaneous fat reduction or Trusculpt Flex for customised muscle toning. Essentially, I would say ReduStim is designed more for individuals with health concerns. If you have more excess subcutaneous fat than visceral fat, with your priority being more appearance-focused, then Coolsculpting might be a better option.
ReduStim—the answer to reducing obesity rates?
The short answer is yes, and no.
You cannot outdo a bad diet even with all the exercise in the world—the same goes for ReduStim. I believe ReduStim will make an excellent complement in our efforts to reduce visceral fat, which should be addressed due to its association with multiple serious health conditions. ReduStim is a treatment that improves not just appearance but health as well; if used appropriately, I am confident it will go a long way in bettering the lives of many.
How much is Redustim in Singapore?
Redustim is available at Veritas from $99. Please drop us a call and we’ll be happy to assist you!
Do you have a question for me?
I am more than happy to answer them at ask@veritas.com.sg and +65 6283 3885
References
- Yu, J. Y., Choi, W. J., Lee, H. S., & Lee, J. W. (2019). Relationship between inflammatory markers and visceral obesity in obese and overweight Korean adults: An observational study. Medicine, 98(9), e14740. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000014740
- https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/764/its-not-a-small-world-after-all#:~:text=If%20your%20waist%20size%20is,circumference%20using%20a%20measuring%20tape
- Beilin, G., Benech, P., Courie, R., & Benichoux, F. (2012). Electromagnetic fields applied to the reduction of abdominal obesity. Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology, 14(1), 24–42. https://doi.org/10.3109/14764172.2011.649763
- G, B., P, B., B, I., HA, G., Al Marush, S., & Haddad. (2018). Impact of electromagnetic fields stimulation on metabolic syndrome, infertility and abdominal fat-related diseases for overweight or obese patients. Integrative Obesity And Diabetes, 4(3). https://doi.org/10.15761/iod.1000211