Obesity is a condition marked by the excessive accumulation of weight or fat in specific body areas, including the abdomen, chin, thighs, and buttocks. While not inherently serious, obesity can reduce lifespan and increase the risk of various health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and stroke. Obesity is often identified by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28.6 or higher in females and 30 in males (Refer to the BMI table at the end of the blog).
Ayurveda Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations
Ayurveda provides solutions in the form of proper dietary management, lifestyle advice, and detoxification procedures like Panchakarma. The holistic approach of Ayurveda, and treating the patient as a whole, makes this science a wonderful option in reforming lifestyle disorders. Some of the lifestyle and dietary recommendations are:
- Smart Dietary Choices:
- Opt for skimmed milk over whole milk to manage fat intake.
- Include cabbage in meals to hinder sugar-to-fat conversion.
- Keep dinners light and consume them before 7 pm.
- Stay hydrated with hot water or tea throughout the day.
- Yoga Asanas:
- Incorporate specific yoga poses like Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana, and Virabhadrasana into workouts. These poses not only aid in weight management but also promote overall body coordination.
- Balanced Meal Approach:
- Ensure each meal contains all six tastes (Rasas): sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent, promoting balanced nutrition.
Ayurveda Medicines for Weight Loss
- Triphala: Enhances digestion and metabolism with its blend of three fruits.
- Guggul: Known for fat-burning and cholesterol-lowering properties.
- Medohar Guggulu: Reduces fat accumulation and improves metabolism.
- Shilajatu: Effective under professional guidance, aiding weight loss.
Ayurveda’s approach to obesity involves a holistic lifestyle overhaul, addressing dietary habits, physical activity, and herbal supplements. Focusing on not just shedding weight but enhancing tissue quality and overall health, Ayurveda emphasizes individualized strategies for better results. It’s vital to seek guidance from an Ayurveda practitioner to tailor solutions suited to your unique constitution and health needs. Integrating these practices fosters a balanced approach to managing obesity, aiming for not just weight loss but improved well-being.
BMI | Weight Status |
Below 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 – 24.9 | Healthy Weight |
25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight |
30.0 and Above | Obesity |
