Integrative approach to obesity management: Ayurvedic & Modern perspective

Abstract

Modernization , affluence , and advancements in science and technology have led to  increase in sedantary lifestyle which unintentionally invites a range of health issues  one of which is Sthaulya (Obesity). Sthaulya affects physical ,mental, and social health.  Sthaulya (Obesity) is considered a principal public health concern and ranked as the  fifth foremost reason for death globally. Overweight and obesity are one of the main  lifestyle disorder that leads to further health concerns and contributes to numerous  chronic disease including cancers, diabetes , metabolic syndrome and osteoarthritis  , cardiovascular disease. Ayurvedic management of obesity adopts a comprehensive  and individualized approach aimed at restoring doshic balance, enhancing metabolic  function, and reducing excess adiposity. Therapeutic strategies include dietary  regulation (Ahara), lifestyle modifications (Vihara), pharmacological interventions  using herbal formulations, and bio-purificatory therapies (Panchakarma). According to Ayurveda Sthaulya (obesity) is caused due to over-nourishment as a consequence of the intake of a heavy,  Obesity is a complex, multifactorial condition influenced  by genetics, environment, behavior and lifestyle .With the  rapid pace of industrialization and economic progress, more  occupations are becoming sedentary and dietary patterns  are also changing with a decline in healthy diet intake and  increase in intake of unhealthy food i.e sugar,fats, processed  food . India is in 7th place in terms of obesity index. Lifestyle  changes are considered the cornerstone in both prevention  and management of Sthaulya (obesity). These changes target  the root causes, such as poor diet, physical inactivity, poor  sleep and chronic stress. Sthaulya (obesity) is not merely  a matter of excess weight,it is associated with a wide range  of metabolic and systemic complications including Type 2  Diabetes, Hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and certain  cancers. These comorbidities significantly contribute to  increased morbidity and mortality worldwide.