All blogs on food and nutrition

How LifeStyle Affects Our Health - AyurWisdom Talks - Dr Sneha - WellnessLoka

Nurturing Health: A Conversation with Dr. Sneha, RMO at OASE Ayurveda Hospital

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Introduction:

Welcome to our interview with Dr. Sneha, the Resident Medical Officer at OASE Ayurveda Hospital. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Sneha shares her journey from Alvas Ayurveda Medical College to specializing under the renowned Dr. Suresh in Ayurvedic fracture healing. She also discusses the importance of lifestyle corrections in addressing prevalent health issues.

 

Q1: Dr. Sneha, could you tell us about your training with Dr. Suresh and the unique approach he had in treating fractures with Ayurveda?

Dr. Sneha: Certainly. Training under Dr. Suresh was an eye-opener. His specialization in Ayurvedic fracture healing, even in complex cases like femoral fractures, without surgical interventions was remarkable. Ayurveda techniques and medicines, both externally and internally, played a crucial role in the healing process.

 

Q2: In modern medicine, fractures often require surgical interventions. How does Ayurveda, as demonstrated by Dr. Suresh, offer an alternative approach to healing fractures without surgery?

Dr. Sneha: Dr. Suresh showcased the potency of Ayurveda in treating fractures without the need for surgery. Ayurvedic techniques involving medicines, bandages, and internal medications proved highly effective. It challenges the conventional belief that surgical interventions are the only solution for fractures.

 

Q3: Moving on to lifestyle, you emphasized the role of lifestyle in health issues. Can you share more about how Ayurveda addresses lifestyle diseases, and what role lifestyle corrections play in preventing and managing these conditions?

Dr. Sneha: Lifestyle diseases like diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension are often a result of modern lifestyles. Ayurveda advocates correcting daily routines and habits as a primary treatment. This includes waking up and eating at the right times, avoiding excessive junk food, and fostering a balanced lifestyle.

 

Q4: What are the key lifestyle adjustments individuals can make to promote better health, especially in relation to waking up, eating habits, and the timing of meals?

Dr. Sneha: Adopting a disciplined lifestyle is crucial. Waking up at the right time sets the tone for the day. Eating at proper intervals, avoiding late-night meals, and steering clear of excessive junk food contribute significantly. These small adjustments form the foundation of a healthier life.

 

Q5: You mentioned the importance of avoiding food after sunset. Could you elaborate on how this practice contributes to overall well-being?

Dr. Sneha: Digestion tends to slow down in the evening. Consuming food after sunset can disrupt this natural rhythm, leading to indigestion and other health issues. Having dinner before sunset or at least by eight o’clock aligns with our body’s natural processes, promoting better digestion and overall health.

 

Q6: How does Ayurveda approach the consumption of junk food, and what advice do you have for individuals struggling with occasional indulgences?

Dr. Sneha: Ayurveda recognizes the reality of occasional temptations. While it’s okay to indulge once in a while, moderation is key. Excessive consumption of junk food can have detrimental effects on health. It’s about finding a balance and being mindful of the quantity and frequency of indulgences.

 

Q7: Can you provide insights into Ayurvedic recommendations for mealtime practices, such as eating in the right quantity, at the right time, and in a conducive environment?

Dr. Sneha: Ayurveda emphasizes mindful eating. Consuming food based on one’s weight and height, having meals at the right times, and eating in a clean and focused environment are essential practices. Eating slowly and calmly allows for better digestion and absorption of nutrients.

 

Q8: The three-hour gap between meals is a notable Ayurvedic principle. How does this practice contribute to digestive health, and what advice do you have for maintaining this gap?

Dr. Sneha: The three-hour gap aligns with the time it takes for our bodies to digest food. It’s crucial to allow complete digestion before introducing the next meal. Being mindful of this gap and not eating during the digestion period supports optimal digestion and overall well-being.

 

Q9: Could you share insights into the impact of food habits, specifically the consumption of spicy, oily, and salty foods, on our mucosal lining and overall gastrointestinal health?

Dr. Sneha: Spicy, oily, and salty foods can disrupt the mucosal lining, leading to various digestive issues. It’s vital to moderate the intake of these elements in our diets. Adjusting spice and salt levels, along with reducing the consumption of oily foods, contributes to a healthier mucosal lining.

 

Q10: Dr. Sneha, could you elaborate on the impact of lifestyle on the prevalence of diseases like diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension, particularly in our aging population?

Dr. Sneha: Certainly. As we age, our susceptibility to conditions like diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension increases. Lifestyle plays a pivotal role in these ailments. By fixing our daily routines and adopting healthy habits, we can significantly mitigate the risk and manage these conditions effectively.

 

Conclusion:

Our sincere gratitude to Dr. Sneha for sharing her profound insights into Ayurveda’s unique approach to fracture healing and the pivotal role of lifestyle corrections in achieving holistic health. This interview serves as an inspiration for those seeking a balanced and natural path to well-being.

Watch the full video on YOUTUBE

 

WellnessLoka is established with the aim of making the world a healthier and a happier place. With a carefully curated selection of 3500+ wellness retreats in collaboration with 250 trusted gurus and properties, we simplify the process of discovering and booking authentic Ayurveda and Yoga experiences. Our team of experienced wellness consultants and doctors are here to assist you choose the retreat that best aligns with your goals and budget. As your dedicated representative in Kerala, we prioritise your interests, ensuring peace of mind during your stay. We maintain long-term partnerships with resorts, allowing us to secure the best prices for you!

Visit www.wellnessloka.com to explore the world of authentic wellness retreats.

THE TASTES OR RASAS

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

taste

One of the important concepts in Ayurveda is Rasa or taste. You might think what impact, the tastes have on us. Let us see in detail.

THE TASTES OR RASAS

There are six types of tastes:-

  1. Swadu or sweet
  2. Amla or sour
  3. Lavana or salt
  4. Tikta or bitter
  5. Ushana or pungent
  6. Kashaya or astringent

These rasas or tastes are dependent on the substance.

HOW DOES THE TASTES AFFECTS THE DOSHAS

Yes, the tastes have a great influence on the doshas. 

  • Vata:- 

The tastes that alleviate or decrease the Vata are Sweet, Sour and Salt. Whereas those result in the aggravation or increase of the dosha are Bitter, Pungent and Astringent.

  • Pitta:-

Astringent, Bitter and Sweet are the tastes that result in the alleviation of the doshas. At the same time, Sour, Salt and Pungent tastes cause the aggravation of the dosha.

  • Kapha:-

Kapha gets increased by Bitter, Pungent and Astringent tastes and gets decreased by Sweet, Sour and Salt.

ANURASA

Along with a primary taste, a secondary taste may also be present and that taste is called as Anurasa.

Along with Anurasas, various combinations of tastes can be found in different substances.

This is the wonder of nature and this is why we say food should be the medicine and not the other way. According to your body condition you can decide, the type of food you should take, thus can make an equilibrium among the doshas.

PRAKRITHI

/0 Comments/in , , /by

According to Ayurveda, each and every individual’s body constitution is decided by the predominant dosha in them. The predominance of doshas is determined during the fertilization. Many factors influence this.

  • Whichever dosha is predominant in the ovum and sperm helps to form the body constitution.
  • The food that is taken by the mother during the pregnancy also has a great influence in this.
  • The behaviour of the mother during pregnancy and the emotions during the time period also affects a lot.
  • The nature of the uterus, even the season also determines the prakrithi of an individual.

There are mainly seven types of prakrithi or body constitution, according to the combination of doshas.

  1. Vataja:- This constitution is formed from the predominance of Vata.
  2. Pittaja:- The predominance of Pitta makes this constitution.
  3. Kaphaja:- Kapha’s predominance helps in the formation of this constitution.
  4. Vata Pittaja:- Vata and Pitta combines to form this body constitution.
  5. Vata Kaphaja:- When Kapha along with Vata become predominant, they forms this constitution.
  6. Pitta Kaphaja:- Pitta and Kapha constitutes this prakrtri.
  7. Tridoshaja:- When all the three doshas are predominant, they constitute tridoshaja prakrithi

A person’s appearance, nature, character, hair, body, strength, span, health etc. are all influenced by the prakrithi of the person. A physician can help you to assess your prakrithi.

Milk and Milk Products

/0 Comments/in , , /by

From ancient period onwards, milk is considered to be the complete food. It is a best source for various vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats etc. Now let us see what Ayurveda has to say about milk and milk products.

According to Ayurveda, milk is sweet in taste. The milk is invigorating, aphrodisiac and acts as a coolant. It nourishes the tissues.

But the properties may change according to the source. In Ashtanga Hrdaya, various types of milk are discussed, including human milk.

Cow’s milk:- Ayurveda says that a person who consumes cow’s milk will get long life. Cow’s milk is also rejuvenative. It provides strength and increases intelligence.

Buffalo’s Milk:- Since this milk is difficult to digest, this milk can only be given to those with very powerful digestion.

Goat’s Milk:- Goat’s milk is easily digestible. It can be used in the treatment of several conditions like fever, dyspnoea etc.

Camel’s Milk:- Camel’s milk can help in increasing appetite and is easily digestible.

The text also discusses about the properties of ewe, elephant and that of one hoofed animals.

MILK PRODUCTS

Curd
Curd is sour in taste. It is hard to digest. It helps in increasing fat and strength. Having curd will help in improving taste and appetite. But consuming curd may cause oedema in some. Ayurveda advices not to have curd in night and also do not heat the curd.

Traditional Buttermilk:- It is easily digestible and improves the appetite. It is sour in taste.

Butter:- Butter is aphrodisiac in nature and improves strength and digestion. It is cold in potency.

Ghee:- Ghee is considered to be the best among fats. It improves intelligence, memory and digestion. It bestows long life and good eye sight.

Among all these, the milk and milk products of cow is considered to be the best and that of ewe’s is the least

Sweeteners

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

In our day today life, we use a wide variety of sweeteners. Chocolates, breads, desserts… all contain a large amount of sweeteners. In Ayurveda too, the topic is discussed and studied well. Let us take a glimpse.

Sugarcane Juice:- Sugarcane juice many properties. It acts like a laxative. Even though it is hard to digest, it nourishes the body and helps in making the body stout. The juice is diuretic and therefore helps in curing urinary problems. Along with that, it is an aphrodisiac. But spoiled sugarcane juice can cause burning sensation. Different varieties of sugarcane juice are mentioned.

Half Cooked Molasses:- This is said to be heavy and hard to digest. But it is diuretic.

Jaggery:- If purified well, the jaggery is laxative and acts as a diuretic. If not purified well, it can cause worm infestation.

Other varieties like brown sugar, sugar candy and refined sugar are also mentioned in Ayurveda. It says that they all have aphrodisiac property.

The best variety of sweetener is refined sugar and least variety is the half cooked molasses.

Honey:- Honey have a lot of medicinal properties. It is good for eye sight. It alleviates thirst. Along with that it helps to cure hiccup, cough diarrhoea. But it should not be heated. For treatment purposes it can be added with warm medicines.

Oils and Other Types of Fats

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

oil

Oils are used for cooking, massaging etc. Only some of us know their properties. Ayurveda discusses about the properties of oils from different sources.

Sesame oil:- This oil have the ability to penetrate deeply into skin. It is hot in potency and kills worms. When processed well, the oil acquires the ability to cure many diseases.

Castor Oil:- The castor oil is laxative, hard to digest and is capable of penetrating deep into the skin.

Mustard Oil:- The oil is hot in potency, penetrates deep into skin and easily digestible.

Neem Oil:- This oil is not very hot, destroys worms and other skin disorders.

Linseed Oil and Sunflower Oil:- These oils are hot in potency.

The text also discusses about the Vasa(muscle fat), Majja (Bone marrow) and Medas (fat). They increases the body strength.

Water

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

water

Water, is the elixir of life. Can you imagine a life without water? No doubt, earth would have been devoid of life. Let us see what Ayurveda says about water.

In Ashtanga Hrdaya, the water is classified according to the source.

The best type of water is rain water and that water which is exposed to sun and wind.

Dushta Jala or Contaminated Water:- In Ayurveda, it is strictly advised that a person should not consume contaminated water. If the water appears dirty, mixed with slush, algae, weeds or leaves, if not exposed to sunlight and wind, if it appears to be frothy, thick, heavy, or if there are worms or spiders, then the water is said to be contaminated.

River Water:- The water from Himalayan rivers was said to be the purest river water. Since the water gets churned up as it gets churned up while flowing from the mountains, it is said to be good for health. It is also said that water from certain regions can cure certain conditions.

The Ayurveda also discusses about well water.

Ayurveda also mentions the benefits of drinking water while having food. It is said that:-

  • If a person drinks water in the end of his or her meals, then the person’s body will be nourished or stout.
  • If a person drinks water in the beginning of his or her meals, then the person’s body will get emaciated.
  • If a person drinks water in the middle of his or her meals, then the person’s body will remain the same or normal.

The Ayurveda also discusses about the benefits of drinking hot water and cold water:-

 

  • Hot Water:-  Drinking hot water helps increase hunger and digestion. It helps to cure throat conditions, flatulence, cough, cold, dyspnoea etc.
  • Cold Water:- Drinking cold water helps in decreasing exhaustion, debility, thirst, heat of sun etc.

 

Coconut Water

Coconut water/ tender coconut water is sweet in taste and easily digestible. It is a coolant that relieves taste and is good for urinary problems.

Acne

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

acne

Acne vulgaris is skin condition caused due to the clogging of hair follicles. Usually acne is seen during puberty

What are the causes of acne

The following are the causes that may cause acne:-

  • Genetics
  • Diet:- a high sugar diet can increase the chances of developing acne.
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Hormonal disorders:- androgens are responsible for producing acne. In some hormonal disorders like PCOD, androgens are produced in large amount and hence acne are formed
  • Stress
  • Environmental factors
  • Side effects of some medications

The increase in production by skin leads to the clogging of the skin pores. The bacteria may grow inside the clogged pores, resulting in acne.

Symptoms of acne

A person suffering from acne medicine with the following symptoms:-

  • Blackheads
  • Whiteheads
  • Pimples
  • Oily skin
  • Scarring

Usually it affects the skin of face, upper part of chest and back.

When the acne affects the appearance of the person it may cause anxiety and low self esteem. in severe cases an individual may go into depression.

According to the severity, the acne can be classified as mild moderate and severe.

Scars are usually formed due to the abnormal healing of the acne and is usually found in severe acne.

In some cases hyperpigmentation can also be seen.

Management of acne vulgaris in Ayurveda

The underlying cause of acne vulgaris is first studied. If the cost is an underlying disease, that condition is treated first.

The following methods can help manage acne vulgaris:-

  • Lepanam:- a medicated paste is made and applied over the affected area. This letter removed after a specified time
  • Jalaukavacharanam:- it is a method of bloodletting therapy. After proper pre operative procedures, the procedure is done under supervision of the physician. It will help in alleviating vitiated doshas.
  • Other purificatory therapies like virechanam, Nasyam etc.

The Treatment for the condition is determined by the physician after the close examination of the patient. Along with the above said treatments there are internal medicines that can help tackle acne vulgaris.

Ayurveda

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Ayurveda

WHAT IS AYURVEDA?

“A traditional system of medicine, originated India, which uses herbs etc. as medicines and also includes massage etc”.

This is the general perception about Ayurveda. But does that give a clear picture?

The word Ayurveda literally means “The Science of Life”. The word originated from two Sanskrit words “Ayus” and “Veda”. Ayus means Life and Veda meaning attaining knowledge.

 It is not only a system of medicine but also a sacred precept that guide us through every aspect of life.

ORIGIN

The exact time period of the origin of life in this universe is unknown. But it’s sure that the primitive men might have developed some natural methods to cure their ailments. The evolution of most sciences might be from these methods.

The exact origin of Ayurveda is not known. There are no recorded evidences to trace back exact time period of its origin.

Veda, are ancient Indian literature, written in the Iron Age. The medical knowledge of that era is recorded in a scattered manner in the Vedas. Ayurveda is the Upaveda or a part of the Atharva Veda, one of the four Vedas.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA

According to Ayurveda, our body is composed of 5 elements or Panchamahabhutas:-

  • Akasa – Ether or free space
  • Vayu – Air
  • Agni – Fire
  • Jala – Water
  • Prithvi – Earth

The English terms given above do not convey full and exact implication of the corresponding Sanskrit terms. But for a common man to understand we can correlate those terms.

The human body made of Panchamahabhutas is controlled by 3 humors or Tridoshas:-

  • Vata
  • Pitta
  • Kapha

According to Ayurveda the equilibrium of these 3 factors results in health and any imbalances will result in disease.

BRANCHES OF AYURVEDA

The division of the Ayurveda itself shows, even before five thousand years, how seriously it deals various topics. The eight branches of Ayurveda are:-

  • Kaya Chikitsa – General Medicine.
  • Bala Chikitsa – Paediatrics
  • Bhutavidya – Psychiatry and mental well being
  • Urdhwangachikitsa/Shalakyatantra – Treatment of neck and head related diseases
  • Shalyatantra – Surgery
  • Rasayana Chikitsa – Rejuvenation therapy
  • Vajeekarana Chikitsa – Science of Aphrodisiacs
  • Agadatantra – Toxicology

WHAT DOES AYURVEDA TEACH US?

Life is a combination of the body, organs (mainly sense organs), mind and soul. To have a perfect life we should have this perfect combination.

Ayurveda helps us to understand the mysterious physical and mental factors of our life. It not only teaches us to cure diseases but also helps to prevent them and guide us how to stay healthy.

हिताहितं सुखं दुखमायुस्तस्य हिताहितं  │

मानं च तच्च यत्रोक्तमायुर्वेद स उच्यते     ││

(Caraka Samhitha: Sutra Sthana: Chapter 1: Verse 41)

One of the greatest treatises in Ayurveda, Caraka Samhitha’s definition shows the relevance and the importance of Ayurveda. The Samhitha defines Ayurveda as the science where the:-

  • Hitha (advantageous) and Ahitha (disadvantageous)
  • Sukha (happiness) and Dukha (Unhappiness)
  • Hithayu (good life) and Ahithayu (bad life)

along with their measures and life itself are described.

The elaborate description about the regimens to be followed daily and seasonally makes this science unique. Along with that it helps us to understand the norms towards well being. The one who follows the above said can attain health and happiness.

Ayurveda And Wellness

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Ayurveda and wellness

The state of wellness differs from one individual to other.

The National Institute of Wellness, USA, defines the Wellness as “an active process through which people becoming aware of and making choices toward a more successful existence.”

While studying the above said definition it may create confusion on how the health and wellness are related.

The National Institute of Wellness gives 6 dimensions for wellness:-

  • Occupational
  • Physical
  • Social
  • Intellectual
  • Spiritual
  • Emotional

These all dimensions focus on an individual’s physical, mental and social wellbeing.

Now let us take a look at the health’s definition WHO.

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely an absence of disease and infirmity.”

Therefore, wellness is also a state of being healthy.

The definition of health in Ayurveda also depicts the same meaning.

“समदोष समाग्निश्च समाधातु मलक्रिया ।

प्रसन्नात्मेन्द्रिय मन: स्वस्थेत्यभिधीयते ॥ “

(Susrutha Samhitha: Suthra Sthana: Chapter -15: Verse-41)

The balanced equilibrium between the Doshas and other factors along with a pleasant and healthy soul, sense organs and mind is said to be health.

The ultimate aim of Ayurveda is protecting the health of healthy and curing the diseased.

HOW TO ATTAIN WELLNESS THROUGH AYURVEDA?

Daily regimen and Seasonal regimen:- Even before describing the diseases, almost all texts in Ayurveda describes healthy regimens that are to be followed daily and seasonally.

Daily regimen or Dinacharya include the habits to be followed everyday to avoid the diseases. Some of them are getting up early in the morning (before sunrise), Evacuation of wastes, Cleaning of mouth, nose, throat etc, oil massage, bathing etc.

Seasonal regimen describes about the characteristics of every season in a year (6 seasons). It also gives us detailed information about how each season and the transformation of seasons affects the health of an individual. By adopting the measures given by Ayurveda, we can protect our health from various seasonal ailments.

Urges:- Do you know that certain urges should not be held with? Yes. If we observe ourselves we can understand how holding those urges can affect our well being. Ayurveda guides us about the urges that should not be held and that should be held, along with the ailments that may occur from not following the directions.

Foods and Liquids:- Ayurveda categorizes various foods and drinks into various Vargas (meaning categories itself). For example, in case of foods, there are many categories like Mamsa Varga (category of meats), Phala Varga (category of fruits), Lavanadi Varga (category of Salts) etc. In liquids, there are category like Thoya Varga (category of waters), Thaila Varga (Category of oils) etc. Along with categorizing, the science also describes the qualities of each item so that one can understand the best and worst among them.

Virudhahara:- The foods that are incompatible along with their effects are taught.

Panchakarmas and other associated procedures:- Panchakarmas are the procedures that help to purify the body and thus helps to cure and rejuvenate the body. Along with that the pre-operative and post operative procedures are also mentioned. Some of them can also be used individually as treatment.

Good conducts of living:- As a social being, an individual will have to follow certain norms of living. These include physical, mental and spiritual aspects.

The above mentioned are just peripheral. As we go deep into Ayurveda, we can understand that Ayurveda aims not only on the health of an individual but also on the overall wellbeing of an individual.

Viruddhahara or The Incompatible Foods

/0 Comments/in , , /by

viruddhahara

Ayurveda teaches that certain foods should not be mixed together. If mixed, they may act as poisonous food. Such combinations may cause many diseases.  Let us see some of the combinations that are incompatible:-

  • Meat of animals from marshy regions when combined with:-
    • Black gram
    • Honey
    • Milk
    • Germinated grains
    • Jaggery etc.
  • Fish and milk, especially in case of prawns
  • Foods that are sour with milk
  • Fruits with milk
  • Green leafy vegetables followed by milk
  • Mixing equal quantities of honey, ghee, muscle fat, oil or water.

Consuming Viruddhahara may cause the aggravation of doshas and may not be expelled from the body causing many diseases.

How To Beat The Summer With The Help Of Ayurveda

/0 Comments/in , , /by

How to beat the summer with help of ayurveda

Summer! Summer! Summer!!! Heat, sun, tiredness… and there are more terms that will come to our mind when we hear the word “summer”. Especially, in India, summer is a period with above average temperatures. So now let us check how we can cope up with the summer with the help of Ayurveda.

In summer, the sun rays get more powerful day by day and can be destructive.  According to the Ayurveda, the Kapha will decrease and the Vata will increase consequently. So the person will have to change his entire regimen according to the change in climate.

First let us see the changes to be made in the diet:-

  • Do not use the foods that are salty, pungent and sour. Include the foods that are sweet in taste.
  • Take foods that are easy to digest, moist, cold and that have more water content.
  • The person should drink more water
  • Drinks made with cold water and sugar can be used in this season.
  • Avoid alcohol intake during summer as it may cause delusion, emaciation, debility and burning sensation.  If necessary it should be taken in very small quantity or should be diluted with water.
  • Rice preparations can be taken.
  • Meat soup that is not very thick can be taken.
  • Buttermilk mixed with pepper powder and sugar can help in relieving the heat.
  • Juices that are made from multiple fruits like grapes, dates etc. can be used.
  • Cold water that is stored in mud pot is best to overcome the heat.
  • Cold buffalo milk mixed with sugar is best in this season     

Other regimens to be changed in the summer:-

 

  • The person should avoid the exposure to sunlight.
  • During day time, the person can spend time under trees or a place without direct sun rays.
  • Reduce the sexual activities.
  • Wear soft and thin dresses. Choose the colors that are light.
  • Engage in activities that make mind happy.

 

So, summer? No need to worry at all. Live the summer with Ayurveda, stay happy and healthy.

                                                                                       

Karkidaka Kanji or Special Medicated Rice Porridge For Monsoon

/0 Comments/in , /by

We have already discussed the importance of ayurveda treatment during monsoon. Now let us see about “Karkkidaka Kanji” or a special medicated rice porridge that can be used in monsoon. This medicated porridge is rich in various medicines that can help to alleviate the vitiated doshas. The medicines are processed and mixed with a different variety of rice and made into porridge. Let us see the recipe of Karkkidaka Kanji.

Recipe of Karkkidaka Kanji

(For one person)

Ingredients:-

  1. Navara Rice (a variety of red rice) – 105 g
  2. Raw Rice                                             – 175 g
  3. Wheat                                                  – 140 g
  4. Uluva  (fenugreek)                            – 135 g
  5. Aasali (garden cress)                        – 14 g
  6. Orila (Desmodium gangeticum), Moovila (Pseudarthria viscida), Kurumthotti (Sida cordifolia), Thavizhama (Boerhavia diffusa), Chukku (dry ginger), Kurumulaku (black pepper), Jeerakam (cumin seeds), Elakkaya (cardamom), Illavangam (cinnamom), Pachila, Nagapoovu (Mesua ferrea), Ayamodakam (Ajwain seeds), Thamaravalayam (roots of lotus), Kothamoalayari (coriander seeds).

The last set of ingredients are to be taken in equal proportions which is then dried, powdered or crushed. These ingredients can be stored and used throughout the season. While making the porridge add 5g from the mixture for the recipe for one person.

Method of Preparation

  • Take Wheat, wash and mix with sufficient quantity of water and boil.
  • Add Navara Rice and Raw Rice after washing and boil.
  • Add Uluva and Aasali, cook well.
  • The last set of ingredients are washed, dried and powdered or crushed well.    Add powder or the crushed medicine, stir well and close the vessel for 10 minutes.
  • Take it as a food in the night.
  • Better to prepare in Bronze or SS Vessel. Avoid the use of Aluminum Vessel.

Weight Management

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Are you obese? Or just over-weight? Confused?? So before talking about weight management , let us discuss about these two terms.

OBESITY AND OVER-WEIGHT

Do you know that Obesity is now one of the leading causes of death world-wide? It has become a pandemic. Even children are affected resulting in various diseases.

Ayurveda includes obesity under the 8 most undesirable physical constitutions.

HOW CAN WE KNOW WHETHER IT IS OBESITY OR OVER-WEIGHT?

You all might have heard about BMI or Body Mass Index. Here is how you calculate BMI:-

BMI = (Weight of the individual in Kg) / (Height in meter) power of 2

BMI (Kg/m2) CLASSIFICATION
From Upto
18.5 Underweight
18.5 25 Normal Weight
25 30 Over-Weight
30 35 Class I Obesity
35 40 Class II Obesity
40 Class III Obesity

 

The fat in body increases mainly in buttocks, abdomen and breast regions.

The fat is distributed in body generally as:-

  • Intra- abdominal fat – The deposition of fat in this region makes the body “apple – shaped”. This is common in men, person suffering from Type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome.
  • Subcutaneous Fat – The deposition of fat in this region makes the body “pear – shaped”.

CAUSES OF OBESITY AND OVER-WEIGHT

Main causes are listed below:-

  • The Genes
  • Endocrine Disorders and other diseases:- Variations of thyroid hormones, PCOS, Mental Disorders etc.
  • Changing Lifestyle:-
  • Increased intake of food in large quantities
  • Increased intake of food which is rich in fat
  • Decreased exercise
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Passive leisure activities

Ayurveda explain the causes as:-

  • Intake of heavy foods
  • Lack of Physical Exercise
  • Day sleep
  • Heredity

COMPLICATIONS OF OBESITY

Being obese can result in:-

  • Various life-style diseases like Type II Diabetes, Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia that can cause Coronary Heart Disease, Stroke etc.
  • The fat accumulation in Liver can result in conditions like Cirrhosis.
  • Many other complications like Exertional Dyspnoea, Sleep apnoea, Respiratory failure etc.
  • Varicose veins, Osteoarthritis
  • Low self-esteem, Depression
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Decrease in life-expectancy

The obesity results in increased mortality and morbidity.

Losing WEIGHT: Tackling Obesity

The health risks caused by obesity are largely reversible. Therefore managing body weight helps to reverse complications that arise from obesity. This can be attained by:-

    • Balanced and healthy eating pattern/ weight loss diet
    • Increased physical activity
    • Practicing Yoga/ aerobics

 

  • Internal and External Ayurvedic Medications

 

Ayurvedic Treatments

  • Udwartanam – “ Udwartanam Kashayadi Choorna Gatra Karshanam”

Udwartana is the reinforced rubbing of the body using medicated powders. A variant of Udwartana known as Udgharshanam – in which a mixture of medicated powders and oil are used to rub on the skin. These treatments are also beneficial in diabetes mellitus associated with obesity, various neurological conditions like MND etc.

  • Panchakarmas

A person who follows the Daily Regimen advised by Ayurveda can control weight and stay healthy.

 

REFERENCES:-

  • Davidson’s Principles and Practise of Medicine
  • Principles and Practice of Panchakarma
  • Charaka Samhitha