Published 24-04-2024
OBESITY
The ancient Indian medical system known as Ayurveda provides holistic solutions for weight loss that take into careful consideration not only physical health but also mental and spiritual wellness.
Here is an in-depth review of the characteristics, elements and scientific basis of Ayurveda's ability to help with weight loss:
Ayurveda views weight loss as a balance between mind, body, and spirit. It emphasizes lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, herbal remedies, detoxification techniques, and stress reduction methods to achieve sustainable weight loss.
Also read: Best Indian food for Weight Loss
Individual Constitution (Prakriti): Ayurveda recognizes that each person has a unique constitution and approach to weight loss should be tailored accordingly. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dosha play a significant role in determining one's body type.
Digestive Fire (Agni): A balanced digestive fire is crucial for efficient metabolism and weight management. Ayurvedic treatments focus on kindling agni through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices.
Detoxification (Panchakarma): Panchakarma therapies like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting), Virechana (therapeutic purgation), and Basti (medicated enema) help in detoxifying the body, removing accumulated toxins, and restoring balance, thus facilitating weight loss.
Herbal Compounds: Many Ayurvedic herbs used in weight loss formulations contain bioactive compounds with demonstrated effects on metabolism, fat oxidation, appetite regulation, and insulin sensitivity. Scientific studies have validated the efficacy of herbs like Guggulu, Triphala, and Shilajit in promoting weight loss.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is associated with obesity and metabolic disorders. Ayurvedic herbs possess anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and promoting weight loss.
Gut Microbiota: Ayurvedic dietary practices and herbal remedies influence gut microbiota composition, which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and weight regulation. Certain herbs and spices have prebiotic and probiotic effects, supporting a healthy gut microbiome and aiding in weight management.
1. Triphala
Comprising the synergistic blend of Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, Triphala stands out as a potent remedy for obesity, primarily due to its robust Lekhaniya attribute. Moreover, it serves as a detoxifying agent, purifying the digestive system, and elevating overall metabolism to prevent fat accumulation.
Recommended Intake: Consume Triphala in churna or kashayam form with hot water at least two hours post-dinner and thirty minutes before breakfast.
2. Medohar Guggulu
Medohar Guggulu, as its name suggests, is a powerful weight loss supplement incorporating remarkable bioactive constituents such as Guggulu, black pepper, sunthi, pippali, Triphala, castor oil, among others. While effective on its own, its efficacy amplifies when coupled with Triphala, vrikshamla, and pushkarmool, significantly accelerating weight loss by enhancing lipid metabolism. It also impedes the formation of new fat cells, triggers natural adipose cell death, promotes thyroid gland function, and boosts overall metabolic activity.
Recommended Intake: Administer 500 to 1000 mg of Medohar Guggulu twice daily with warm water, Triphala Decoction, Triphala Tea, or as advised by a healthcare professional.
3. Arogyavardhini Vati
Regarded as Sarvarogaprashamani, meaning a panacea for various ailments, Arogyavardhini Vati is a potent ayurvedic proprietary medicine aimed at enhancing metabolism and rectifying liver irregularities. Formulated with key ingredients like Kutki, Triphala, Gugggulu, Shilajit, and mineral elements, this versatile concoction improves appetite, aids digestion, and prevents excessive fat accumulation.
Recommended Intake: Consume 250 mg to 500 mg of Arogyavardhini Vati twice daily with water.
4. Suddha Shilajit
Known as the "Destroyer Of Weakness," purified Shilajit is a revered herbo-mineral or Rasaoushadhi endowed with potent lekhaniya and rejuvenating properties. It not only enhances body metabolism and eliminates belly fat but also purges toxins from the body. Additionally, it naturally reduces harmful cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular health.
Recommended Intake: Take 250 – 1000 mg or 2 capsules of Suddha Shilajit twice daily with milk or water, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning and before bedtime, or as directed by a healthcare provider.
5. Mustakarishta
Mustakarishta, an arishta preparation of Mustak or Nagarmotha, fortified with the goodness of carom seeds, ginger, clove, pepper, jeera, methi, dhataki flower, and jaggery, proves indispensable for weight loss endeavors. Its potent anti-obesity properties stimulate appetite, enhance fat digestion and metabolism, making it a valuable addition to daily dietary practices.
Recommended Intake: Consume 10 to 30 ml of Mustakarishta twice daily after meals, diluted with an equal amount of water, or as prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician or healthcare provider.
Also read: Benefits of doing HIIT Workouts for Weight Loss
Make your lunch the highlight of your day by aiming to get around half of your daily calories during this meal. It's because our bodies are primed for digestion around midday. Try to finish your dinner before 7 pm and keep it light on the calories.
Cut back on refined carbs if you're aiming for a leaner physique. These sneaky carbs lurk in sugary drinks, pasta, bread, cookies, and oily foods.
Kickstart your mornings with fenugreek powder mixed in water or on an empty stomach. You can also soak fenugreek seeds overnight and have them in the morning before your first meal.
If you are willing to loss those extra fat and don't know where to start. Consult with our expert specialist Dr. Shivani Nautiyal. She will guide you through out you weight loss journey.