Obesity is a condition resulting from excessive accumulation of fat in the body which may be caused due to intake of high-calorie food, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress. Excess weight has always been identified as a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Even though it is considered to be a risk factor, neither are all individuals who are obese have type 2 diabetes or are all diabetic people obese.
Ayurveda considers any ailment as a result of Tridosha imbalance which is – the three doshas being Vata, Pitta, and Kabha. Diabetes is called ‘Madhumedha” or “Prameh” in Ayurveda. Ayurveda identifies around 20 classes of diabetes where the imbalances occur in different doshas. According to Charaka Samhitha, Prameha is classified into three, Saadhya (Curable), Yapya (Workable), and Asaadhya (incurable). According to Shushrutha’s broad classification of diabetes based on physical appearance, there are two categories:
- Sahaja Prameha (Genetic diabetes)
- Developing Diabetes as a result of a genetic disorder. It is similar to type 1 diabetes as described in modern medical science.
- Apathya nimitaja Prameha (Acquired / Obese Diabetes)
- Diabetes developed due to improper or bad lifestyle leading to vitiated doshas.
Causes:
Sedentary lifestyle
Excess Sleep
Excessive consumption of milk
Alcohol Consumption
Or any factors that lead to an aggravated Kapha dosha can result in Diabetes. An elevated Kapha dosha and med dhathu (fat tissues), results in channel blockages which in turn lead to ojas / vital energy from the body being brought to the urine resulting in Madhumedh.
Ayurveda treatments follow the principle of ‘Nidana Parivarjana’ which means removing the root cause of the disease. By focusing on identifying and removing the root cause, the body is made capable to strengthen its defense system which in turn improves healing capabilities. Thus with the body defense system in place, metabolic disturbances, which leads to diabetes, are regulated. Ayurveda treatment for diabetes starts with detoxification which focuses on the removal of accumulated aama / toxins affecting the dosha imbalance. Once detoxified, the body becomes receptive to the medicines and other treatments focusing on the root cause.
Along with the treatments in place, a diet customized to include the required nutrients and a carefully devised lifestyle plan is recommended so that the effect of medicines and treatments can be well complemented and manage diabetes effectively. While managing diabetes is the prime focus, there is also a possibility of going off medications and diabetic treatments for good along the way while staying true to the lifestyle changes depending on the type and stage of diabetes, age, and the duration of being affected by the condition, etc of an individual. It is called Reversing Diabetes. Upon following a carefully planned lifestyle, the possibility cannot be ruled out.
Keeping the weight in check is of prime importance. The closer one gets to their ideal weight, the lesser amount of medicines the body requires to manage the glucose levels. As it is rightfully said, “Sitting is the new smoking”. Even with the inclusion of daily exercises, always be mindful of the duration of sitting. With the current scenario where prolonged sitting hours have become unavoidable for students as well as office goers, it has become a silent threat that is affecting children and adults alike. Prolonged sitting should be avoided as it poses immense health risks and we should make it a habit to walk around for at least a few minutes every half an hour.
The best treatment for the overweight is by being more physically active and following a healthy diet plan. While on the diet plan, one must also pay attention to restrict the portions of food intake thus avoiding overeating. In Ayurveda, there are a few herbs, spices, and plants that have proven abilities in weight reduction. For example, Triphala, Garcinia Cambogia, Brahmi, Curry Leaves, Turmeric, Ginger, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, etc are extremely beneficial in weight loss. Guggul, another ayurvedic herb – a resin obtained from the Guggul tree sap, in moderation is also favorable in aiding weight loss.
Regardless of the case whether you are diabetic, obese, or just would like to prevent the conditions, one should not hesitate in getting a consultation from a certified Ayurveda practitioner before plunging into medications. Obesity and its related treatments need to be taken with the highest regard and we provide the best Ayurveda treatments in Kerala for Obesity and diabetes. It is never too late to get an appointment and get yourself checked for symptoms and leading a healthy lifestyle for longevity.
