Obesity

According to Ayurveda, both underweight and overweight highlights the imbalance of Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Overweight or obesity in most people results predominantly due to Kapha-type dosha. However, the other two doshas can also cause obesity in some people.

An imbalance between food intake and proper digestion/metabolism rather than the food intake alone is the main culprit for obesity or overweight problem. Ayurvedic treatment for obesity targets the root cause and focuses on improving metabolism and cutting down on unhealthy foods.

Symptoms:

Reduction of longevity
Premature aging
Loss of vitality
Irritability and mental confusion
Bad odor and excessive sweating
Breathlessness on exertion, difficulty in breathing
Uncontrollable hunger, thirst, tiredness

Causes:

Aggravation of Kapha – According to Ayurved, Obesity or Medarog is a result of aggravation of Kapha. Kapha is responsible for lubrication in the mind and body; controlling weight; and synthesis of seven tissues –muscles, bones, marrow, nutritive fluids, blood, fat and reproductive tissues. Aggravation of Kapha leads to secretion of toxins in the body, which accumulate in Medovahi Srotas (fat channels), thus increasing production of fat tissue (Meda Dhatu). Production of these excess fat tissues results in increase in weight.

Genetic factors – Obesity is a genetic disorder that tends to run in families. The offspring of obese parents can develop Obesity. Sometimes, the dietary and lifestyle habits practiced in family also lead to obesity.

Psychological disturbances – Some people start overeating in response to negative emotions such as anger or boredom leading to obesity.

Environment – Uncontrolled eating habits, inactive lifestyle and less physical activities contribute towards excess accumulation of fat in the body.

Risk Factors:

• Lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns, not enough sleep, and high amounts of stress can increase your risk for overweight and obesity.
• Childhood obesity remains a serious problem in the United States, and some populations are more at risk for childhood obesity than others.

Treatment:

• In Ayurveda, obesity is treated not only for weight loss or loss of centimeters, but also in terms of adjusting metabolic processes by reducing Ama and the excess fat to regulate the function of Kapha without vitiating Vata. To correct metabolism as well as strengthen the digestive and tissue fire and clear body canals, it is important to improve dietary habits and reduce the impact of stress.