Weight Issues (Overweight or Weight Loss)
According to the 2021 Health Survey for England, an estimated 25.9% of adults in the country are obese, while another 37.9% are classified as overweight but not obese. Obesity is generally defined as having a body mass index over 30, and being overweight is defined as having a body mass index between 25 and 30.
In Ayurveda, obesity is described as a state of Sthoulya or Medoroga. This refers to a condition in which excessive fat accumulates in the body, leading to various health-related complications. According to Ayurvedic principles, the primary factors contributing to obesity include imbalances in the doshas, particularly Kapha and Vata, as well as lifestyle and dietary habits.
Kapha dosha is responsible for the body’s structure and firmness. When Kapha becomes imbalanced, it encourages the accumulation of excessive fat and fluids, resulting in weight gain. This tendency is further aggravated by a sedentary lifestyle, excessive sleep, and the consumption of heavy, oily, and sweet foods. If Vata is aggravated, it may lead to irregular eating habits and increased cravings, thereby contributing to weight gain. In addition, poor digestion or low Agni (digestive fire) can result in the formation of Ama (toxins) within the body. These partially digested substances accumulate over time and further contribute to obesity.
Ayurvedic treatment for obesity adopts a comprehensive, holistic approach, considering the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of an individual. Consulting a qualified physician or Ayurvedic practitioner is advisable, as they can devise an individualised treatment programme that takes into account one’s unique constitution and health conditions. This holistic approach aims to achieve sustainable weight management and long-lasting well-being.
Anorexia
The lifetime prevalence rate of anorexia nervosa in women ranges from 2% to 4%. Anorexia is approximately 4 to 12 times more common in women than in men and occurs mostly in the young, particularly in those aged between 15 and 19 years. It is the leading cause of mortality among mental health disorders.
In Ayurveda, anorexia is regarded as a heterogeneous condition characterised by a lack of appetite or an aversion to food, which can lead to serious weight loss and malnutrition. The Ayurvedic perspective on anorexia attributes its development to imbalances in the doshas, along with disturbances in the digestive system. It acknowledges that both physiological and psychological factors play a role.
A central concept in the Ayurvedic understanding of anorexia is a weakened digestive fire, known as Agni. When Agni is weak, proper digestion is impaired, leading to reduced appetite and the accumulation of Ama (toxins) that further compromises health. Ayurveda maintains that a strong and balanced digestive fire ensures a healthy appetite and promotes effective digestion.
From the Ayurvedic point of view, anorexia arises when the doshas become imbalanced, resulting in diminished digestion as well as physical and mental disturbances. To address anorexia, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. Such a practitioner can develop an individualised treatment plan based on a person’s unique constitution, thereby restoring balance, improving appetite, and supporting overall health and well-being.