Dietary intervention in Sthoulya (obesity)

Abstract

Sthoulya (Obesity) is the most prevalent form of malnutrition. As a chronic disease, prevalent in both developed and developing countries and affecting children as well as adults, it is one of the most significant contributors to ill health.  Ayurveda which is not only a science of medicine but a way of life. It advocating prevention of disease as its primary aim and following holistic approach in dealing with diseases. Acharya Charaka has described Sthoulya under Asta Ninditha Purusha (Eight undesirable constitution) based on their ugly appearance, victims to public abuse and unmanageable health condition. In Sthoulya there is excessive increase in Mamsa (flesh) and Meda (fat) Dhatu with pendulous movement of buttock, abdomen and breast, strength is rendered disproportionate with physical growth. Sthoulya is one among Kapha Pradhana Vyadhi (predominant disease) involving Kapha and Medas as main Dosa and Dusya in the Samprapthi (pathogenesis). Sthoulya is root cause for many killer diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension and heart diseases. To manage Sthoulya there is a need for proper dietary planning. Dietary foods having the property of Guru (heavy) and Atarpana (non-nourishing) must be followed like Yava (Barley), Mudga (Green gram), Kulatta (Horse gram), Adhaki (pigeon pea). Hence here an effort is made to manage Sthoulya through Ayurvedic diet.