Obesity-Diet myths solved

Since i have started writing the blog, i have got requests from my friends and students to address the rising problem- Diet myths in Obesity. Many of them have asked me about what diet to be followed in Obesity. 

          Ayurveda has explained obesity and its management in detail. Ayurveda Acharyas i.e rishis have mentioned various medicines,diet changes and activities to reduce weight. But before generalizing the diet for obesity ,we should know the many causes for obesity. It may be due to sedentary life style;hormonal imbalance like hypothyroidism,PCOS; hereditary;obesity with Diabetes mellitus;due to drug intake like steriods. 

           In this post in general the diet for obesity has been explained.According to the causes,additional changes in the diet is advised.while mentioning the diet for obesity ,Ayurveda has clearly mentioned that food which are Guru i.e takes a long time to get digested but devoid of fat should be advised. Most of the times we associate Guru food with fatty food. But it is not so. Here Guru food are those which are rich in fiber such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits. These food take a long time to convert to sugar and are rich in fibers.hence they are ideal for losing weight.

Myths of obesity diet:

Nowadays many people follow a protein rich and low -nil carbohydrate diet.carbs are required for our body. They help in producing energy. The Fiber rich carb diet is also a source of micro nutrients like vitamins and iron. so when these carbs are excluded from the diet the person will have a lack of luster and will suffer from vitamin deficiencies. Hence Both carbohydrate and protein should be consumed with moderation. Fat content in the diet should be reduced. fat is required to lubricate the joints and give a smooth and softer skin. Hence should not be completely omitted from the diet.In addition to the diet, exercise should be advised.

Obesity diet and treatment

For obesity carbs and proteins should be consumed in moderation and fats should be restricted. Complex carbohydrates are found in whole grain, brown rice,vegetables,fruits and legumes.these should be consumed.All  vegetables are good.bitter gourd,Indian spinach and ginger are best for obesity.

Proteins are found in pulses, fish, chicken,egg white and nuts.

fats: pure vegetable oils, moderate amounts of ghee.

 In treatment ayurveda mentions oral medicines to reduce fat,massage with herbal powders and enemas.

Must Do's and Don'ts

Stop eating Packaged food, bottled beverages,canned fruit and canned fruit juices,refined flour, bakery products,sweets,chocolates,diary products like curds,yogurt and red meat.Avoid fructose rich fruits such as chiku,grapes, mango and custard apple.

 Indulge in butter milk with ginger, honey mixed with water, soup prepared out of Moong dhal.

PS: Daily moderate activity of 30-45 mins such as brisk walking or on a tread mill is required.