In recent years, we have gone through the news, posts and places where one thing is common, and that is obesity. It has emerged as one of the major health issues worldwide. As the time is evolving, the human race is regressing itself by aligning themselves with unhealthy eating habits and no physical activity. Ayurveda offers a different approach than contemporary medicines to address obesity. It deals with the condition while offering holistic solutions to prevent and treat the root causes. 

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें 

Why is Obesity Taking over Health?

Obesity has become a serious medical condition linked to heart disease, cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc. There are myriad of reasons why this is occurring:

• Unhealthy Diet- A sudden rise in the demand of processed foods, high sugar and fat fast food is the reason for an increase in calorie intake, but it is low in nutrients. The foods that are non-nutritional interrupts digestion causing imbalances in the body.

• Inactive Lifestyle- With the digitization of almost everything, humans are dependent on technology which makes them less active physically. It results in slower metabolism and weight gain.

• Chronic Stress- The hectic schedule and pressurized work environment drastically impact our eating habits and patterns. Stress sometimes can trigger and promote overeating which lead to weight gain.

• Genetics- Some people may have a genetic tendency to obesity. Genetics can impact how the body deals with fat in gaining or losing, regardless of the lifestyle factors. 

• Hormonal Imbalance- Hormones like insulin and thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating weight. Imbalances in these hormones, often caused by factors like stress or diet, can contribute to weight gain.

How Does Obesity Impact Cholesterol?

Obesity impacts cholesterol in several and negative ways:

• Increased LDL Cholesterol- Extra fat contributes to higher levels of LDL cholesterol, because fat cells release certain substances that influence cholesterol production and metabolism, resulting in an increase in LDL cholesterol. 

• Decreased HDL Cholesterol- Obesity is associated with lower levels of HDL as HDL helps remove extra LDL cholesterol from the blood. When the levels of HDL cholesterol is low, it indicates that the body is inefficient at removing bad cholesterol. The outcome is an increased risk of cholesterol buildup in the arteries.

• Heightened Triglycerides- Obese people are more likely to have high levels of triglycerides. It occurs when the body has more calories than needed, often from unhealthy fats and sugar. Triglycerides are a type of fat that contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease.

• Insulin Resistance- Insulin resistance comes into action where the body becomes less responsive to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar — all of this happens due to obesity. Insulin resistance often leads to elevated blood sugar levels – which can eventually lead up to type 2 diabetes. 

Symptoms of Obesity

Obesity doesn’t always come with obvious symptoms, especially in its early stages, but there are several warning signs to watch for:

• Excess Body Fat: A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher is the most common clinical indicator of obesity. However, it's important to consider other health markers as well.
• Shortness of Breath: Obesity puts additional strain on the heart and lungs, which may lead to breathing difficulties, especially during physical activity.
• Joint Pain: Excess weight can put a tremendous load on the joints, leading to pain, particularly in the knees, hips, and lower back.
• Fatigue: Carrying excess weight often leads to a feeling of sluggishness or tiredness, as the body works harder to perform everyday activities.

Obesity as per Ayurveda

Ayurveda knows obesity as Medoroga or Sthaulya and describes it as an imbalance of the body’s energy or doshas, specially kapha. When Kapha becomes imbalanced, it leads to build-up of fat and lethargy in the body.

The Ayurvedic understanding of obesity goes beyond just looking at excess body fat; it emphasizes the importance of balancing mind, body, and spirit to create sustainable health and wellness. This is how Ayurveda approaches the problem:

1. The Role of the Three Doshas

• Kapha Dosha- This dosha is primarily composed of Earth and Water and is responsible for structure. It gives support and holds cells together. It lubricates the joints, moisturizes the skin and maintains immunity. An imbalance Kapha causes lethargy, heaviness and leads to fat accumulation.  
• Vata Dosha- Vata is mainly a combination of air and space, and governs muscle and tissue movement. An aggravated Vata can lead to irregular digestion.
• Pitta Dosha- Excess Pitta can lead to excessive hunger or acid reflux, which can result in poor food choices, leading to weight gain.

2. Mind-Body Connection

Ayurveda also recognizes that obesity isn’t just a physical condition but a reflection of the mind-body imbalance. Emotional overeating or stress-induced weight gain is common, and understanding the root causes of these behaviors is essential for effective treatment.

Ayurveda for Obesity

Ayurveda offers a different approach than contemporary medicines to address obesity. It deals with the condition while offering holistic solutions to prevent and treat the root causes along with treating the mind, body, and spirit. Here are some Ayurvedic remedies and strategies to manage obesity:

1. Dietary Adjustments

• Light Foods: As per Ayurveda, it is recommended to eat warm and light foods that are easily digestible. Include vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Avoid cold, oily and heavy foods. 
• Spices to Boost Digestion: Include spices like ginger, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper in your meals to encourage Agni and enhance digestion. 
• Eat Mindfully: Ayurveda encourages mindful eating and portion control, eating in a calm and relaxed environment. Avoid overeating, which can cause Ama buildup.

2. Herbal Remedies- Ayurvedic herbs provide a holistic solution to a problem. Herbal remedies may help maintain balanced weight. 

• Triphala: A herbal preparation which comprises three dried different fruits that promote detoxification, support digestion, and aid in weight management by improving elimination.
• Guggul: Known for its ability to stimulate fat metabolism and support healthy cholesterol levels.
• Fenugreek: Often used to support digestion and balance blood sugar levels, fenugreek can curb cravings and reduce fat storage.
• Ashwagandha: This adaptogen helps reduce stress, which is a common contributor to overeating and weight gain. Ashwagandha helps balance cortisol levels, which play a role in fat accumulation.

3. Lifestyle Practices

• Regular Exercise: Ayurveda recommends incorporating a mix of yoga, walking, or moderate physical activity into your daily routine. Exercises that involve both movement and mindfulness are ideal for balancing Kapha and boosting metabolism.
• Sleep and Stress Management: Sleep disturbances and high stress levels are often linked to weight gain. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or Ayurvedic oil massages can help calm the mind and improve sleep quality.

Conclusion

Obesity is a serious health issue with many contributing factors. While the modern medicinal system has progressed in understanding the condition, Ayurveda has advanced by offering a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of obesity.