Symptoms
- Excessive weight gain
- Difficulty moving or performing daily activities
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Increased sweating
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, which can negatively impact health. It’s diagnosed based on a metric called Body Mass Index (BMI),where a BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese, but also considers factors like fat distribution. In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, obesity is understood as a condition called Sthaulya. It majorly involves the imbalance of Kapha Dosha which is associated with weight gain, water retention, and slow metabolism leading to excessive fat accumulation and sluggish digestion.
Types of Obesity:
- Class 1 Obesity: BMI of 30-34.9
- Class 2 Obesity: BMI of 35-39.9
- Class 3 Obesity (Severe or Morbid Obesity): BMI of 40 or higher
Causes of Obesity:
- Energy Imbalance: Consuming more calories than your body burns through daily activities and exercise.
- Unhealthy Diet: High intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain.
- Genetics: Certain genes may predispose some individuals to be more susceptible to obesity.
- Medical Conditions: Hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications can contribute to weight gain.
- Sleep Deprivation: Chronic lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Limited access to healthy foods, safe spaces for exercise, and social determinants of health can all play a role.
Risk Factors
- Family History: Genetics and family dietary habits can increase the risk of obesity.
- Age: The risk of obesity increases with age due to slower metabolism.
- Diet: High intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and large portion sizes can lead to obesity
- Pregnancy: Weight gained during pregnancy can be difficult to lose and may contribute to obesity.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is a significant risk factor for obesity.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and corticosteroids, can lead to weight gain.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, and depression can increase the risk of obesity.
Home remedies
- Food Journal: Keeping track of your food intake can help identify patterns and potential triggers.
- Cooking at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes.
- Cumin water: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cumin seeds to a glass of water and soak them overnight. Drink the water on an empty stomach every morning
- Chia seeds: Soak chia seeds in water or milk and add to breakfast cereals or smoothies.
- Cinnamon: Mix half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a tablespoon of honey in warm water and drink in the morning and before bed.
Therapies
Panchakarma treatment
- Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): This procedure uses herbal laxatives to eliminate toxins and excess Kapha dosha (associated with weight gain) from the digestive tract.
- Basti (Medicated Enemas): Herbal enemas can help cleanse the colon, improve digestion, and potentially reduce bloating. Specific Basti variations like Sneha Basti (oil enemas) may be used depending on your needs
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Full-body massage with warm herbal oils to stimulate circulation, reduce fat deposits, and promote relaxation
- Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Induces sweating to help eliminate toxins from the body, reduce water retention, and improve metabolism.
- Udvartana (Herbal Powder Massage): A dry massage using herbal powders to stimulate the breakdown of fat and improve skin tone.
Naturopathy treatment
- Hydrotherapy: Use of water treatments such as cold baths, steam baths, or contrast showers to stimulate metabolism and improve circulation.
- Mud therapy: Mud packs help draw out toxins from the body through the skin, promoting overall detoxification and improved metabolic function.
Yoga asanas
- Surya Namaskar- it is a sequence of 12 powerful yoga poses. It provides a good cardiovascular workout, stretches, and tones the muscles while improving overall flexibility.
- Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
- Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I Pose)
- Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Naukasana (Boat Pose)
- Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
- Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Pranayama
- Kapalbhati Pranayama – Rapid, forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations. It helps in reducing abdominal fat and improving metabolic rate.
- Bhastrika Pranayam – Deep, forceful inhalations and exhalations. It boosts metabolism and improves overall energy levels.
- Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing)- Balances the body’s energy, improves lung function, and reduces stress, which can contribute to weight loss.
