Not only is being overweight a matter of social ridicule, but it is also a very dangerous proposition health-wise. Obesity is an open invitation for six of the most terrible diseases known to man – diabetes, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular problems, paralysis, gangrene and heart attacks. Hence obesity may not itself be a disease, but it could definitely be a life-threatening condition.

In Ayurveda, obesity is known as Medo Roga. It is simply defined as the condition in which excessive amount of fat is accumulated in the body. There are two main reasons for this abnormal deposition of fat – (i) excessive fat intake through the diet and (ii) some metabolic problem which does not allow the proper utilization of fat in the body. Ayurveda holds agni, or the digestive fire, responsible for obesity. When the agni is vitiated, then the ama (toxic substances) is built up in the body, leading to obesity.

The fat accumulated in the body could lead to a deposition of cholesterol in the arteries and the veins of the body. This is where most of the problems begin. The collection of the cholesterol can reduce the diameters of the blood vessels leading to a decreased blood flow into various important organs of the body, including the heart.

(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Obesity

1. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)

Guduchi is an indigenous Indian herb which is not very well-known out of India. It is a commonly prescribed herb in Ayurveda for the condition of obesity. It helps in the proper canalization of fats in the body and thus reduces obesity.

2. Guggulu (Commiphora wightii)

A great deal of research has been done on the guggulu plant in recent times. The guggulsterone present in it is an alkaloid that has been found to be especially effective in heart ailments. Among its myriad other benefits, one is the reduction of fat accumulation in the body, giving people a leaner physique. Guggulu is the Ayurvedic drug of choice for obesity.

3. Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)

Known as amalaki in Indian medicine, the Indian gooseberry is the richest source of vitamin C among all foodstuffs. Vitamin C can disintegrate fatty buildup in the body. Hence, it is a very effective herb for the treatment of obesity and related conditions. The amalaki is an integral component of Triphala, which is commonly prescribed in the treatment of obesity.

(2) Dietary Treatments for Obesity

There is a direct relation between the diet one eats and obesity. Controlling the diet is a sure method of controlling obesity. The following guidelines must be observed:-

1. Foods that are excessively rich in carbohydrates must be avoided. These include rice and potatoes. Wheat must be used instead of rice. Barley and maize can also be used effectively.

2. Fatty substances must be avoided. In obese people, the chances of cardiovascular problems such as atherosclerosis are high. Hence, people who consume lots of hydrogenated fats have greater risk of cholesterol buildup in their arteries.

3. Obesity increases the chances of diabetes mellitus. Hence, people who are overweight must reduce their intake of sugars and other sweet foods.

4. Bitter and pungent foods are found to be effective in the control of weight and also preventing the dangers of diabetes in obese people. The bitter gourd and the bitter variety of drumstick are beneficial in this aspect.

5. Obese people must avoid preserved foods. The same applies to refrigerated drinks and cold foods.

6. Among meats, avoid red meats as they have high fatty contents. While buying meats, ask for the lean cuts and get the fats trimmed from them before cooking.

(3) Ayurvedic Treatments for Obesity

Guggulu is prescribed by most Ayurvedic physicians as the drug of choice in the control of obesity. It may be prescribed in its pure form (in the dosage of one gram four times a day), or it can be given in a mixture form as Navaka Guggulu or Triphala Guggulu. These are given in tablet form, followed by some hot drink. Mineral supplements such as Tapyaadi Lauha and Shilajitawadi Lauha are given in conjunction with the Guggulu tablets.

(4) Home Remedies for Obesity

1. When you wake up in the morning, have a tablespoonful of honey mixed in an equal amount of water.

2. Drinking hot water continuously throughout the day also helps to dissolve the excess fat in the body.

3. Ginger is effective in dissolving fat. Have it twice or thrice a day in the form of tea.

4. Every one day a week, have a totally liquid diet. Fasting entirely can also be done if it is physically tolerable. This helps to flush out the toxins and excess fats accumulated throughout the week.

5. Regular exercise is one of the most important things. It helps to reduce the excess fats in the body and also keep the person fresh and active throughout the day.