Celebrities have come out in droves endorsing Ozempic-led weight loss success stories. Originally formulated to treat diabetes, as opposed to weightloss, Ozempic and such drugs have now become the quick fix route to shedding pounds.
While there are those that may benefit from weight loss remedies, surely we need to take the Ayurvedic view and look at the diet and lifestyle that lead to obesity in the first place?
In creating lasting habits that treat food as medicine and rituals that support a balanced state that looks closely at both our physical and emotional needs, one can begin to shed weight and all that holds us back from living our potential. While not the easy route, it is surely safer than potentially risky quick fixes.
Ayurveda's Take on Modern Medicine for Weight Control
Ayurveda does not reject modern medicine but often supports a complementary approach, using its methods alongside medical treatments to enhance overall well-being, especially in significant weight-related health issues. Unlike modern medicine, which tends to target symptoms like obesity, Ayurveda focuses on addressing the root causes of weight gain such as poor digestion, an imbalanced lifestyle, or mental stress, aiming for long-term solutions rather than quick fixes. Ayurvedic practices like Panchakarma detox therapies cleanse the body of toxins that contribute to weight gain, promoting a more sustainable and healthful method compared to diet pills. Additionally, Ayurveda uses natural remedies and herbs like Triphala, Guggul, and Garcinia Cambogia, which are preferred over synthetic diet pills due to their holistic benefits and fewer side effects.
How To Manage Weight, The Ayurveda Way
Create healthier eating habits:
- Fill half your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with whole grains, and one-quarter with protein (such as legumes, tofu, or lean meats).
- Mind portion sizes, adjusting them to your individual needs and activity levels.
- Eat slowly and pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues.
- Stop eating when you feel satisfied, even if there is food left on your plate.
Integrate herbs to improve digestion:
- Triphala is your go-to before bed to support digestion and detoxification. It helps regulate bowel movements and remove toxins from the body, aiding in weight management.
- Guggul supplements help boost metabolism and burn fat and improve thyroid function, contributing to weight loss.
Drink the right way:
- Choose warm or room temperature water throughout the day, especially upon waking and before meals. Avoid ice-cold water, as it can weaken digestion and hinder weight loss efforts.
- Enjoy herbal teas such as ginger tea, cumin coriander fennel tea (CCF tea), or mint tea between meals to aid digestion and hydration as well as curb cravings.
Move your body every day:
- Choose Activities Based on Dosha:
- Vata types may benefit from grounding exercises like yoga, walking, or tai chi to promote stability and relaxation.
- Pitta types may enjoy more intense activities like swimming, cycling, or martial arts to release excess heat and energy.
- Kapha types may thrive on vigorous exercises like jogging, hiking, or strength training to increase metabolism and energy levels.
- Take movement breaks during the day: incorporate brisk walks, climb stairs, stretch for 5-10 minutes between your tasks.
- Choose activities that feel enjoyable and energizing rather than exhausting or depleting.
Manage stress levels:
- Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or spending time in nature into your day.
- Establish a consistent daily routine that includes adequate rest, regular meals, and time for relaxation and self-care.
- Stick to regular sleep and wake times to support hormonal balance and metabolism.