Integrative approach of Ayurveda and Yoga in management of Obesity

Obesity is one of the major and growing public health concerns in the United States. A review of literature indicates that prevalence of overweight has doubled for the ages 6-11 years and tripled for the American teenagers. Diet and Lifestyle changes in the past three decades have potentially placed risk factors for obesity. Obese individuals are at increased risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease and cancer. Ayurveda one of the oldest medical systems promotes health by bringing harmony in body and mind through diet, herbs, spices, exercise, meditation and purificatory therapies. According to Ayurveda obesity is generally due to aggravation of kapha energy which is responsible for anabolic activity in the body. Its aggravation and association with metabolism of medho dhatu (adipose tissue) leads to formation of abnormal accumulation of Medho dhatus. Etio-pathology for such a change in the metabolism of Medho dhatu (adipose tissue) is significantly contributed by diet. Herbs, spices, diet substances and yoga postures that are specific in rectifying the metabolism of adipose tissue, are the interventions used in this study for the management of obesity. Study records chest, abdomen, waist, arm, and thigh circumferences and weight at the base line and every three months. The results show significant reduction in all the above measurements. The following case reports illustrates simple and effective measures of Ayurveda and yoga for management of obesity and encourages larger sample controlled trials.