WHAT IS OBESITY?

The definition of overweight and obesity involves an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat posing health risks. A body mass index (BMI) of 25 or above signifies overweight, while 35 or higher is considered obese. Obesity stems from excess body fat, though factors like muscle, bone, or water can contribute to overweight. The imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure is the root cause. In Ayurveda, obesity, termed Stoulya, is viewed as a pathological condition altering metabolism, leading to fat deposition in specific areas. This condition brings about various health issues, including a diminished lifespan, reduced physical activity interest, challenges in coitus, debility, body odor, excessive sweating, and increased hunger and thirst. Recognizing and addressing these factors is crucial for effective obesity management and overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to health. By acknowledging the intricate interplay of factors, individuals can navigate a comprehensive path toward achieving and maintaining optimal health and weight.

1. Genetics- Genetics play a role in obesity, as certain genetic predispositions can make a person more prone to gaining weight.
2. Hormonal imbalances and medical conditions -such as hypothyroidism can also cause weight gain.
3. Other factors -that may contribute to obesity include stress, lack of sleep, and certain medications.
4. Change in Lifestyle-However, lifestyle and environmental factors also play a significant role in the development of obesity. An unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity are two of the most common causes of obesity. A diet high in calories, especially from unhealthy sources such as processed foods, fast foods, and sugary drinks, can contribute to weight gain. Similarly, a sedentary lifestyle that lacks regular physical activity can also contribute to weight gain.

To avoid or treat this illness, it’s crucial to address the underlying causes of obesity and adopt lifestyle modifications as healthy eating practices. This can entail maintaining a nutritious diet, exercising frequently, and getting assistance from a doctor or counselor. People can lower their chance of acquiring obesity-related health issues and enhance their overall quality of life by taking steps to maintain a healthy weight.

If you are struggling with obesity and have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise but have not been successful, it is important to see a doctor. A healthcare professional can help evaluate your BMI and current health status to determine if there are any underlying conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, that may be contributing to your difficulty losing weight. They can also assess your nutrition and eating habits and determine if there are any changes that could help you achieve your weight loss goals. In addition, a doctor can help assess your exercise routine and determine if it is appropriate for your needs. They may recommend changes to your routine or refer you to a fitness professional for further guidance. It is important to have a balanced exercise routine that includes both cardiovascular activity and strength training to support weight loss and overall health. If you have a family history of obesity-related health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or stroke, it is especially important to see a doctor for guidance and support in developing a weight loss plan. They can help assess your risk and recommend lifestyle changes or medical interventions to help you achieve a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing these conditions. Overall, seeing a doctor for weight loss can be an important step in improving your health and achieving your weight loss goals.

DIET PLAN

The dietary plan is designed to nourish the body while helping to eliminate toxins and excess weight. It usually involves the consumption of whole, natural foods that are easy to digest and that support the body’s natural healing processes. The treatment plan may also include the use of herbal remedies and therapeutic massages to support weight loss and improve overall health.

Ayurvedic treatment at Sanjeevananam is tailor-made to the individual’s unique needs and involves a combination of various treatment modalities to achieve optimal results. Generally, the treatments usually include certain internal medications, Panchakarma treatments, and external therapies that help to lose weight. The internal medicines include certain herbal decoctions, powders, and tablets which are selected based on the condition of the patient. Diet and exercise are planned both to meet the nutritional requirement and lose weight systematically without getting tired. External treatments like certain dhaaras, udwarthanam(powder massage), lepanam(herbal paste application), etc. help one to lose weight. Also, Panchakarma treatments like Vamanam (Therapeutic emesis) and Virechanam (Therapeutic Purgation) are done after doing preparatory therapies like Snehapana, Swedana, etc. Special care and restriction in diet and lifestyle are also taken care of during these days.
Modifications in the treatments are made by the Ayurvedic practitioner after considering the health status and associated difficulties that happened to the patient after weight gain.
It is crucial to remember that ayurvedic weight loss treatment may involve persistence and dedication to get results. It can, however, be an effective tool for obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight if used properly.

Yoga is beneficial in maintaining good health by regulating BMI, improving biochemical functions of the body and helpful to overcome the complications of obesity and reduces metabolic risk factors. Most people practice yoga to improve flexibility and balance, relieve stress and reduce aches and pains. But yoga can also help to lose weight and it provides positive influence on the mental aspects associated with successful weight loss and weight maintenance.
Yoga can increase body awareness, counter negative and self-judging thoughts related to eating habits and foster a sense of self control. A combination of physical exertion from asanas and mental benefits derived from relaxation, pranayama and mindful meditation leads to a productive weight loss strategy.
Physical poses which are associated with weight loss involves twists that encourages digestion, standing poses that strengthen larger muscle groups and forward bends that stimulate abdominal organs and thyroid glands.