Ayurvedic Approach to Weight Loss: Learn holistic strategies for effective weight management and overall well-being. Unlock the power of Ayurveda today!
Understanding Obesity in Ayurveda
Ayurveda recognizes obesity as Sthaulya, a condition arising from an imbalance in the body’s doshas, particularly Kapha dosha along with vata dosha. And this combination of doshas makes it harder to manage obesity. Factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, and emotional factors contribute to excess fat accumulation. Ayurveda targets the laxity of fatty tissue and the body more than just weight in kgs. As, every individual is unique, rather than concentrating just on Kgs i.e., quantity, one must concentrate on the tone of body tissues like fatty and muscle tissue which shows quality. So many a time, ‘loss in inches’ is more apparent than ‘loss in kgs’.
Ayurvedic Diet for Weight Loss
Ayurveda underscores the significance of a well-balanced diet in weight management. The principles of the Ayurvedic diet advocate the consumption of fresh, seasonal, and whole foods that align with one’s body type.
Some Ayurvedic recommendations for weight loss include:
- The use of millet is advised for obesity. E.g., Jowar, bajra, etc. They help in losing weight.
- Consuming water infused with good quality honey is a good remedy in the long term to lose weight.
- Also, use of buttermilk, warm water is helpful.
- Spicing up meals with metabolism-enhancing spices such as turmeric, cumin, and black pepper.
- Avoiding processed and fried foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt intake.
- Barley is also one of the best choices in grains for obesity.
- Among dicots, green gram, and horse gram are preferable.
Ayurvedic Medicines for Weight Loss
Ayurveda provides an array of herbal medicines and supplements that can aid in weight loss. However, it is crucial to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any medication.
Commonly used Ayurvedic medicines for weight loss include:
- Triphala is a blend of three fruits that improves digestion and metabolism.
- Guggul is a resin renowned for its fat-burning properties and cholesterol-lowering effects.
- Medohar Guggulu is herbal formulation that reduces fat accumulation and improves metabolism.
- Shilajatu is also useful if taken under a physician’s guidance.
It is important to note that Ayurvedic medicines should be taken under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner, who considers individual body type, dosha imbalance, and overall health condition before prescribing any specific medication.
Detoxification in Ayurveda for Weight Loss
Detoxification plays a pivotal role in weight loss according to Ayurveda. The accumulation of toxins disrupts metabolic processes and contributes to weight gain. Ayurvedic detox methods aim to eliminate these toxins and restore the body’s balance.
According to the constitution of a patient, detox procedures are advised.
- Vaman or emesis is a commonly used procedure in obesity management as it works of Kapha dosha. It also helps in obesity which is coupled with hypothyroidism and PCOD.
- Virechana or purgation is rarely used if the patient is not eligible for Vamana and needs detox or has a pitta constitution.
- Basti or medicated enema is also widely used for this purpose with a specific combination of herbs.
