Ayurvedic viewpoint - Obesity & Weight Loss
Typical Symptoms
Being overweight
Pendulous buttocks, breasts, abdomen (modern medicine defines this as a BMI of 30 ormore).
Decreased activity/lassitude
Shortness of breath
Easy sweating
Osteoporosis and infertility are commonly connected with obesity.
Typical Causes
Poor metabolism
Weak digestion of sugar and high levels of insulin resistance
Low thyroid
Excessive intake of heavy, fatty and sweet foods
Lack of exercise (including sexual activity)
Sleeping during the day
Offspring of obese parents (recent research has found that children of obese parents are in fact 10 times more likely to be obese themselves).
Ayurvedic Viewpoint
Fatty tissue accumulates around the abdomen due to excessive intake of sweet fatty foods consequently blocking the circulation of nutritive energy around the body. This stagnation causes blocked energy to accumulate in the stomach which results in the digestive process becoming imbalanced. This causes excessive hunger and continual over-eating, which creates a vicious circle of a strong appetite with poor digestion and without good quality nutrition reaching the tissues.
Treatment
General Line of Treatment
The most important thing is to clear the obstruction, balance digestion and enhance metabolism.
Willpower and motivation are critical to success.
Herbal Treatment
Triphala is a famous Ayurvedic formula made from three cleansing fruits that can be an effective aid to any weight-loss programme. Its balanced spectrum of five tastes helps to reduce food cravings and prevent over-eating. It also helps to lower cholesterol levels. Take 2-3 capsules 2 times a day or 15-30 drops of the tincture 2 times a day with warm water.
Guggul Plus is a specific formula for regulating digestion, clearing obstructions and reducing weight. It contains Guggul (Indian myrrh), Turmeric and Ginger, all renowned for their weight loss inducing properties. Guggul has many clinical trials attesting to its ability to reduce LDL Cholesterol. Take 2-3 capsules 2 times a day with warm water.
For most effective results, take both of the above formulas long term to increase metabolism.
Drink spicy Revitalise cinnamon, cardamom & ginger herbal tea to warm up the system and help move congestion.
Try Detox aniseed, fennel & licorice herbal tea containing diuretic seeds that will help flush excess fluids from the body.
Some Ayurvedic Dietary Suggestions
Eat foods which are heavy, and therefore “filling”, but which have a lightening effect e.g. barley, mung beans, aduki beans, honey and buttermilk. This will quell feelings of hunger while promoting weight-loss.
Drink plenty of tepid water mixed with honey morning and evening (4:1 water:honey) Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day. This helps to clear blockages and dissolve congestion.
Stick to healthy eating habits:
Wait until previous meal is digested, leaving 4 hours between meals.
Eat slowly with concentration.
Do not overeat (ideal ratio is 1/3 liquid: 1/3 solid food: leave 1/3 portion of the belly empty to promote proper digestion.)
Do not snack in between meals; drink hot water!
Lifestyle Recommendations
Gradually increase both mental and physical activity, including a regular daily exercise routine.
Testimonial
“I have struggled to keep my weight balanced for the last few years. Since taking the Triphala with Guggul Plus, my appetite has been much more balanced. Along with some regular exercise, I have even started to lose weight. I love my Guggul!”
Angela, 50