OBESITY AND ITS AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

Dr. Meghaa Agrawal*, Dr. Prashant Singh Bhadauria and Dr. Ankita Agrawal

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda is 5000-year-old and has a holistic approach to life. In Ayurveda, Sthoulya (obesity) is an abnormal and excess accumulation of Meda Dhatu, which includes fat tissue and fat metabolism. Frequent and excess intake of foods which increase Kapha and Medodhatu. “Obesity” specifically refers to an excessive amount of body weight that includes muscle, bone, fat, and water, which may lead to negative effects on health, reduced life expectancy or increased health problems. Obesity is a penalty of the modern era, the world-wide latest report on prevalence of obesity according to W.H.O states that around 250 million cases of obesity are being reported every year. Preven-tion of this condition is the need of the hour. Prevention of obesity can be done initially in early stage of life by adopting regimens mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. As secondary prevention following Shamana- Sho-dhanoushadhis and Pathyapathya is highly beneficial.

Keywords: Obesity, Sthoulya, Ayurveda, prevention.