Dealing with Obesity? Adopt Ayurveda and be carefree!

With the lifestyle we practise today and the food we eat, we are more prone to gain weight. But the worst of it is many people don’t think of obesity as a disease but rather, just a moral failing. 
Obesity isn’t just about the calories that go in or out. It’s much more than that. With time, slowly but definitely, obesity can become a home for many complicated health conditions such as Diabetes, breathing difficulty, or heart problems. 
It is the need of the hour to adopt a healthy lifestyle which will enhance the way of our living. As always Ayurveda is here to rescue us. The most reliable and trusted treatment for obesity is hidden in those powerful herbs. Ayurveda’s philosophy says that the right way of living is the only treatment one needs to prevent or manage health conditions in order to live a disease-free life. Similarly, one is favouring its body by treating obesity in time. The gentle herbs such as Turmeric, Ginger, and Ashwagandha can provide long-term relief from weight gain issues. They fix our metabolic problems, boost our immune functioning, and remove toxins to cleanse the body from within and ease fat reduction.

The risk factors involved with obesity are

• Family inheritance: Obesity is one of the strongest genetically inherited traits. So sometimes, it can be passed down in families because of the genes. Some people have certain genes that just make it easier for them to gain pounds and way tougher to shed them. So, if your parents are obese, there are higher chances of you ending up the same way.
• Inactivity: When we talk about being inactive, we're usually talking about not exercising regularly. The reason inactivity is a risk for gaining weight is because when we're not moving, we're not burning as many calories as we're eating. This can result in extra fat piling up in our bodies.
• Unhealthy diet: The diet plays a very important role in shaping you. An unhealthy diet is all about eating calorie-packed but nutrient-poor foods. Eating junk food can be very addictive, making it hard for us to stop bingeing with which we become more prone to being obese.
• Medications: The thing is some medications can actually contribute to weight gain. So, if you're on certain medication and are concerned about weight gain, it's important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you understand its potential risks and find a dosage that's right for you.
• Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can mess with our body's hormones and affect its metabolism. Therefore, making it harder for us to burn calories or fat. On top of it, we mostly reach for high-calorie, sugary snacks when we are tired, which can lead to more weight gain.
• Stress: Obesity and stress can go both ways. When we're stressed, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol that can make us crave more food, leading to potential weight gain and possibly obesity in the long run. On the other hand, being overweight can also contribute to stress by making people feel self-conscious, judged, and with low self-esteem, all of which can create more stress.
• Health Conditions: Some health conditions such as Metabolic Syndrome or PCOS/PCOD can cause people to gain weight. These conditions disrupt the balance of hormones and affect our metabolism and appetite.

If not treated on time it may lead to some serious complications listed below. 

• Heart disorders: Having some extra weight, especially around your belly area, can make it tougher for your heart to pump blood around your body. This might cause issues like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
• Diabetes: Having too much body fat, especially around your waist, can make your body less sensitive to insulin. This is called "insulin resistance". It means that your body has to work harder to regulate your blood sugar levels. Thus, Obesity affects the normal functioning of insulin. 
• Malfunctioning of the organs: Obesity can also cause problems for various organs. When someone is obese, it can be harder for them to breathe, thus leading to lung problems. Excess fat also makes it difficult to pump blood properly, causing various heart problems. 
• Cancer: People who are obese have a higher risk of getting cancer compared to those who are not obese. This is because being obese can lead to changes in the body, like abnormal cell growth, that make it easier for cancer to form and spread.
• Bone depletion: An excess of weight can cause pressure on joints which may lead to the depletion of bones. This is because the extra weight can put a lot of stress on the bones and cause them to lose their density over time. They might also have more difficulty doing everyday activities. 
• Mental disorder: When someone is dealing with weight issues, they might develop a negative self-image about themselves, leading to social isolation and depression. Plus, being overweight can mess with your brain power, like memory and focus.

Natural herbs and spices for Obesity

Some of the natural herbs and spices that will aid in the weight loss are:

Turmeric
This golden-yellow spice, commonly found in kitchens around the world, has gained attention for the potential benefit it hides. Turmeric is really helpful in supporting weight loss and managing obesity. It is all because of the active compound in turmeric, called curcumin. The anti-inflammatory properties it possesses may help reduce inflammation or swelling in the body that emerged due to metabolic issues.  
Additionally, turmeric is also thought to support the breakdown of fats in the body and prevent its further accumulation. Adding this to your dishes may offer your body with crucial benefits, that you’re looking to support you in the weight loss journey.

Guggul
Guggul is a resin obtained from the mukul myrrh tree.     In Ayurveda, it is highly valued for its ability to improve metabolism and reduce ama (toxins). When the metabolism is running efficiently, your body burns calories more effectively, which can aid in weight loss. 
Guggul also possesses the properties of detoxification. So, in simple terms, this essential herb makes your body more efficient at burning calories, reduces the buildup of toxins, and boosts metabolism.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains such compounds that can mimic the effects of insulin in the body. This means that it helps lower the blood sugar levels, thus, reducing your sugar cravings after meals.Consumption of cinnamon can also slow down the process of emptying the stomach. This will make you feel fuller for longer periods and reduce your calorie intake. Its natural sweetness can also enhance the flavor of dishes, making it a useful ingredient in weight-loss recipes.

Ginger
Ginger is like a superhero for your stomach! When you eat ginger it starts working right away to help your digestive system. It makes it easier for your body to break down the food. This means you’ll be relieved from bloating and discomfort after the meals.
When it comes to weight loss, it is like a secret weapon. You see, ginger has this amazing ability to rev up your metabolism. Plus, ginger controls your appetite by making you feel fuller for longer. So, you are less likely to snack on unhealthy stuff. So next time when you are looking for a natural way to improve digestion and shed some extra pounds, think of ginger!

Fenugreek
Fenugreek, also known as methi, is a herb commonly used in Indian dishes and traditional medicines. The best way fenugreek helps with weight loss is by controlling your appetite. This happens, as it contains a soluble fiber that slows down the emptying of your stomach. So, you are less likely to overeat or binge on snacks. 
Overall, fenugreek can be a helpful addition to your diet if you’re looking to control your appetite and support weight loss goals. 

Garcinia Cambogia
This herb is believed to aid in weight loss with its active ingredient called hydroxycitric acid. It blocks an enzyme called citrate lyase which your body uses to make fat. Thus, preventing the formation of fat from the food you eat. 
Additionally, HCA boosts serotonin levels which help reduce cravings and emotional eating, therefore, leading to a decline in overall calorie intake. 

Triphala
If searching for a useful home remedy for weight loss, here’s what you should give a shot – Triphala. 
Triphala is a combination of three herbal fruits: Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It is known for its useful properties for people struggling with obesity. It works in a few different ways to tackle these issues. 
First off, it improves digestion by regulating proper bowel movements and promoting a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Plus, it’s believed to enhance metabolism which means your body burns calories more efficiently. 
In addition, it removes toxins from the body that might be contributing to weight gain and other health problems. 

Fennel
This flavorful herb is often used in cooking and herbal medicine because of its benefits for boosting metabolism and aiding obesity. If you consume raw fennel seeds or drink fennel tea, it can promote the production of digestive enzymes. These enzymes will help break down food more easily. 
Also, they eliminate excess water from the body and reduce bloating. By reducing water retention, fennel can contribute to weight loss and leaner appearance. 

Aloe vera
Aloe vera plant has been used for centuries for its healing properties. Well, when it comes to treating obesity, it can be really helpful. 
When you drink aloe vera juice or consume aloe vera gel, it can help calm the inflammation in the digestive tract and promote better digestion in the body. When your digestive system is working smoothly, it supports your efforts to maintain a healthy weight. 
Furthermore, it also has laxative properties, meaning it can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. 

Peppermint
Peppermint is believed to help suppress your appetite and aid in treating obesity. When you smell or taste peppermint, it sends signals to your brain that help reduce the feeling of hunger. This will make you feel fuller faster and decrease the urge to overeat. 
It also has some cooling effects on the stomach which help soothe digestive discomfort and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. Overall, incorporating peppermint into your daily routine, such as drinking peppermint tea or using peppermint oil helps curb appetite and contribute to healthier weight. 

Ginseng
Last but not the least. It can rescue the weight loss journey in several ways. Firstly, it boosts your metabolism, which is like your body’s engine for burning calories. If your metabolism is strong you burn more calories even when you’re doing nothing. It also stabilizes your blood sugar levels, thus, decreasing those unnecessary sweet cravings. 
Finally, ginseng can boost your energy levels, making it easier for you to stay active and stick to your workout routine more energetically. Overall, it is like a supportive teammate in your weight loss journey.

Dietary changes for Obesity

The diet has a very important role to play when it comes to controlling weight. Your diet decides your weight.

• Green leafy vegetables: Leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, and kale provide the body with enough nutrition and at the same time they help to reduce weight.  
• Mushroom: They help to regulate the levels of glucose in the blood. They also promote weight loss and burn excess fats.
• Pumpkin: They are high in fiber and low in calories. You can eat it in the form of vegetables, or powdered form. The best way is to have the pumpkin seeds. 
• Carrots: They are one of the best low-calorie vegetables that can be included in the diet. They do not contain fat content. 
• Beans:  They help in fighting against belly fat accumulation. It reduces the risk of obesity. 
• Asparagus: The chemical present in the asparagus is asparagine, which directly acts on the cells that break down fats. Start adding asparagus to the diet. 
• Cucumber: They help in detoxification of the system. They are high in water content and they fill you up, decreasing the hunger. They can be eaten in the form of salads. 

1. Fresh fruits and vegetable juices are other good options. They will heal the body internally as well as externally. 
2. Keep the body hydrated. Drink lots of water. You can also add tulsi, mint leaves, ginger, cucumber, and lemon as an infuser in the water. Another option is to drink coconut water or coconut milk.
3. Cow’s ghee should be consumed in a moderate amount. 
4. Do not consume carbonated drinks or caffeine, they will cause discomfort to the body. 
5. Processed foods and instant foods should not be consumed; they will impact the arteries and may lead to cardiovascular diseases. 
6. Oily, sticky food must be avoided as it may weaken the heart. 
7. The foods rich in saturated fat must be avoided they cause the cholesterol levels to rise. 
8. Dairy products should be limited as they are abundantly rich in fats.
9. Do not forget to include buttermilk in the daily routine. Add sendha namak and jeera to the drink.
10. Prefer a plant-based diet rather than a non –vegetarian diet. 

Lifestyle changes for weight loss

Our daily routine impacts our living style and it eventually decides our body’s condition. 

1. Most people these days are bound to their desks, so start being active.
2. Plan a workout routine according to your endurance and bodily conditions. 
3. Go out for morning/evening walks. Try brisk walking.
4. Jogging and running are also good options. But it should be done by taking the advice of the expert. They may also cause to have bone fractures.
5. Quit the alcohol, smoking, and tobacco consumption. They flare up the condition. 
6. Add Yoga asanas like Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana, Kumbhakasana, Naukasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Chaturanga Dandasana, Virabhadrasana, and Sarvangasana to the workout regimen as they are not only benefiting in providing the relief from gaining weight, but they also help to keep the whole body system in coordination. 
7. To keep stress at bay, one should meditate. Even the 10-15 minutes of meditation can keep the body in alignment and rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul.

Do not worry if you have gained too much weight. Please don’t get disheartened we will help you with Obesity.