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What is Obesity?

Obesity is a common nutritional disorder that can affect people of all age groups. It is characterised by an excess accumulation of fat in the body. High intake of high-fat, fried foods and a sedentary lifestyle result in excessive fat getting blocked in various body channels. Obesity, in turn, causes several metabolic disturbances such as hypertension, diabetes, irregular digestion, etc. It can also affect social life. Excess body weight, if not brought down, can lead to obesity.

According to Ayurveda, weight gain occurs due to excess accumulation in the body's three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, with Kapha being the most significant. An increase in Kapha results in excess accumulation of Ama, toxins, and Medha Dhatu, or fat, within the body. This, combined with the Kapha Dhatu imbalance, leads to metabolic function disruption, resulting in weight gain.

Common Causes of Weight Gain

Several reasons, including lack of physical activity, an unhealthy lifestyle, and poor eating habits, cause weight gain. Some of the significant causes of obesity include:

Overeating: Eating more calories than the body's physical requirements can lead to fat accumulation.

Unhealthy Foods: Sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods can disturb metabolism and increase Kapha dosha.

Irregular meals: Going for long periods without eating for more extended periods can compromise the body’s metabolism.

Lack of Physical Activity: This is one of the biggest reasons for weight gain in many people. Even simple weight lifting or walking can activate Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Kapha, promoting weight loss or management.

Stress Eating: Sustained stress affects cortisol levels in the body. High cortisol levels can stimulate excess fat deposition, especially in the belly region. Emotional eating often results in consuming calorie-dense comfort foods.

Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in the proper hormonal levels, as observed from diseases like PCOS, Hypothyroid or Insulin Resistance, can go a long way in hindering an individual from losing weight.

Genetics: If obesity runs in your family, you may be at a high risk, too. However, you can maintain a healthy weight by following a balanced diet.

Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can disrupt the hormones that lead to excessive food intake.

Signs and Symptoms of Obesity

Weight gain doesn't always occur immediately but can lead to noticeable symptoms, including: