Understanding and emphasizing the concepts of Swasthavritta to combat Sthaulya w.s.r. to Obesity

Abstract

Modernization and sedentary lifestyles have led to a rapid rise in metabolic disorders, with obesity, or Sthaulya in Ayurveda, becoming a significant global health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that obesity affects approximately half a billion people worldwide, making it a public health priority, especially in developing countries like India, where lifestyle disorders are prevalent. Obesity, a multifactorial nutritional metabolic disease, results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, leading to excessive adipose tissue growth and severe health complications such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. Current treatments, including pharmacological interventions, often come with side effects, highlighting the need for preventive strategies. Ayurveda, a holistic health science, addresses both the prevention and treatment of obesity through Swasthavritta, which aims to maintain health and treat diseases by restoring homeostasis among the Tridosha, Saptadhatu, Agni, and Mala etc. This review explores the etiopathology of Sthaulya, its symptoms, and preventive measures such as Nidan Parivarjan (avoiding causative factors), Dinacharya (daily regimen), diet, and non-pharmacological methods like exercise and yogic practices. Emphasizing the principles of Swasthavritta, the review suggests that adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of obesity and its associated health issues, providing a comprehensive management protocol through diet, lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic interventions. This paper aims to offer insights into the aetiology, pathogenesis, and effective management strategies for obesity through Ayurveda and Yoga, addressing the global demand for sustainable obesity prevention and treatment methods.