Obesity

Causes of Obesity According to Ayurveda

• Imbalance in Doshas: Kapha Dosha leads to sluggish metabolism and fat accumulation, while Vata Dosha causes irregular digestion and improper fat distribution.

• Poor Dietary Habits (Apathya Ahara): Excessive intake of oily, fried, sweet, and heavy foods, overeating, and irregular eating patterns.

• Sedentary Lifestyle (Avyayama & Asyasukham): Lack of physical activity slows metabolism, and excessive sitting or sleeping after meals increases fat storage.

• Weak Digestive Fire (Mandagni): Slow metabolism leads to improper digestion and toxin (Ama) accumulation.

• Psychological Factors (Manasika Hetu): Stress, depression, and emotional eating contribute to overeating and weight gain.

• Genetic & Hereditary Factors (Beeja Dosha): Obesity tendencies passed down through family history.

• Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and hormonal fluctuations affecting metabolism.

• Excessive Sleep (Divaswapna): Daytime sleep increases Kapha, leading to weight gain.

• Over-Nourishment (Santarpana): Excessive calorie intake without proper digestion and metabolism.

Symptoms of Obesity

• Shortness of breath even with minimal physical activity.

• Reduced enthusiasm and lack of interest in daily tasks.

• Excessive sweating accompanied by unpleasant body odor.

• Increased appetite and frequent hunger pangs.

• Persistent fatigue and low energy levels.

• Prolonged or excessive sleep patterns.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Obesity

Ayurveda provides holistic approaches to managing obesity, focusing on dosha balance, detoxification, and lifestyle modifications.

1. Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative Treatment)

• Langhana (Fasting): Helps in reducing excess fat and improving metabolism.

• Ama Pachan: Use of digestive herbs to enhance fat metabolism and eliminate toxins.

• Ruksha Udwartana (Dry Powder Massage): Stimulates circulation, reduces fat accumulation, and improves skin tone.

• Dietary Modifications: Consumption of light, non-nourishing foods such as honey and salads is recommended.

• Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity and mental engagement help in weight management.

• Panchakarma (Purification Process): A deep detox to eliminate excess toxins and balance Doshas.

• Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis): Helps expel excessive Kapha and reduces fat accumulation.

• Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Cleanses the digestive system and regulates Pitta Dosha.

• Lekhana Vasti (Medicated Enema): A specialized enema to remove deep-seated fat and toxins.