Obesity and its prevention – an Ayurvedic module

The Obesity pandemic today affects nearly 130 million persons in the United States. 2/3 rd of the US adult population are either overweight or obese. Most alarmingly the percentage of young people who are overweight has more than tripled since 1980. NIH in spite of investing $ 440.3 millions in the fiscal year 2005, on project to support obesity research shows situation worsening rather than improving. The obese individuals have multifaceted impact on society and are at increased risk for acquiring serious medical conditions. Observational data suggest that environmental and behavioral factors have important roles in gaining weight.

Ayurveda, the science of life, is one of the world's oldest medical systems. It originated in India and has evolved there over thousands of years. According to Ayurveda each individual is unique and this science mainly focuses on the balance of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions. This balance leads to health and also prevents illness. Obesity is regarded as medoroga in Ayurveda-Abnormality of adipose tissue and fat metabolism.

The current paper illustrates and evaluates customized diet based on living condition, body make up, season etc. Daily routine and seasonal practices reduce the obesity risks. Herbs incorporated into diet also decrease the morbidity. Ayurvedic therapies, yoga and breathing exercises help reducing abnormal weight and sustaining it.