Siddha Medicine for Weight Loss – Obesity
Siddha medicine offers a unique approach to weight loss by harmonizing the body’s energies and addressing underlying imbalances. Drawing from ancient Indian wisdom, Siddha practitioners prescribe herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications tailored to individual needs. These natural interventions aim not only to reduce excess weight but also to enhance overall health and vitality, promoting sustainable and holistic well-being.
What is Obesity?
Obesity and being overweight mean having too much body fat, which can harm your health. It is typically determined by calculating the Body Mass Index (BMI), which takes into account a person’s weight and height. A BMI over 25 is considered overweight, and 30 or higher is generally considered indicative of obesity.
Causes for Obesity
There are genetics, behavioral, metabolic, and hormonal influences on body weight. Obesity occurs when you eat more calories than you use up through your regular daily activities and exercise. Our body stores these excess calories as fat. Most people’s diets are too high in calories, often from fast food and high-calorie beverages. People who are obese might eat more food before feeling full, get hungry again quickly, or eat more because of stress or anxiety. It often results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, such as
- Family inheritance – genetics play a role in how efficiently the body converts food into energy, how the body regulates appetite, and how the body burns calories during exercise.
- Lifestyle choices – unhealthy diet, liquid calories, and inactivity.
- Certain diseases and medications – can be traced to medical causes, such as hypothyroidism, Cushing syndrome, Prado–Willi syndrome, and other conditions. Some medications can lead to weight gain if it does not compensate through diet or activity. They include steroids, anti-depressants, anti-seizure medicines, diabetes, anti-psychotic medicines, and certain beta blockers.
- Age – in older ages, hormonal changes and a less active lifestyle increase the risk of obesity.
- Other factors are pregnancy, quitting smoking, lack of sleep, stress, and microbiome.
Obesity-Related Problems (Complications)
People with obesity are at a higher risk of developing several serious health problems, such as:
- Heart diseases and stroke
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Certain cancers
- Digestive problems
- Sleep apnea
- Osteoarthritis
- Fatty liver
Obesity can diminish the overall quality of life. One may not be able to do physical activities that you used to enjoy. One may avoid public places. People with obesity may even encounter discrimination. Additional problems related to overweight that can impact the quality of life include:
- Depression
- Disability
- Shame and guilt
- Social isolation
- Lower work achievement
Obesity Management
The goal of obesity management is to reach and stay at a healthy weight. This helps make your overall health better and reduces the chances of having problems linked to obesity.
- Dietary changes – reducing calories, feeling full on less food, making healthier diet choices, restricting certain foods.
- Exercise and activity – exercises and keep moving.
- Behavioral changes – A behavior modification program can help you make lifestyle changes to lose weight.
Why Siddha Medicine for Weight Loss (Obesity)?
Siddha herbs can induce gradual and sustainable weight loss effectively. Anti-obesity Siddha medicinal plants & medications will lead to safe & effective treatment for obesity. Some Siddha medicinal plants possess anti-obesity properties when used as food, and a few can assist in weight loss.
How Siddha Treatments Can Help for Weight Loss and Treat Obesity?
Siddha treatments offer holistic and natural approaches to weight loss and obesity management. By combining herbal remedies, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and personalized treatment plans, Siddha medicine helps individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight while promoting overall well-being. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified Siddha practitioner to receive personalized treatment tailored to individual needs and health conditions.
Herbs used in Siddha Medicine for Weight Loss
- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) helps treat obesity, control appetite, and reduce food intake to support weight loss.
- Murraya koenigii (Curry leaves / karivepillai) has potent glycaemic and lipid-lowering properties. It is a promising natural aid in weight loss and obesity management when incorporated into a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
- Kalli mulaiyaan (Caralluma fimbriata) decreases belly fat, body fat, and body weight. It works by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that directly affects appetite.
- Sirukurinjan (Gymnema sylvestre) – It contains gymnemic acid. Apart from reducing blood sugar levels. It also helps to reduce both appetite and food intake.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains curcumin, which has been shown to help weight loss and fat loss.
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) – decreases blood sugar levels, which can also reduce appetite and hunger.
- Kollu (horse gram / Macrotyloma uniflorum) – High protein contents in horse gram help to reduce hunger hormone levels, which makes us crave less to eat. Thus aiding weight loss.
- KUDAMPULI ( Malabar tamarind / Garcinia cambogia) – Kudampuli suppresses hunger and blocks the production of fat cells in the body, regulating as well as managing weight.
Siddha Dietary Recommendations for Weight Loss
- Include Fiber-Rich Foods: Siddha medicine suggests incorporating plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet. These foods help you feel full for longer periods and support healthy digestion, aiding in weight loss.
- Limit Processed Foods: Siddha practitioners advise minimizing processed and refined foods like sugary snacks, fast food, and packaged meals. These foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives that can contribute to weight gain.
- Embrace Plant-Based Proteins: Opt for plant-based protein sources such as lentils, beans, tofu, and nuts instead of relying solely on animal proteins. Plant-based proteins are lower in calories and saturated fats, making them a healthier choice for weight loss.
- Moderate Portions: Siddha medicine emphasizes the importance of mindful eating and portion control. Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and avoid overeating by eating slowly and savoring each bite.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water each day can help you feel less hungry, speed up your metabolism, and keep you healthy overall. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated and promote weight loss.
Lifestyle Recommendations for Weight Loss
- Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity such as walking, jogging, cycling, or yoga to promote weight loss and improve overall fitness. Try to exercise moderately for about 30 minutes on most days of the week.
- Prioritize Sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is essential for weight management and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support metabolism, reduce cravings, and improve energy levels.
- Manage Stress: Long-term stress can cause people to eat more to cope with their emotions, which can result in gaining weight. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
- Limit Sedentary Activities: Reduce sedentary behaviors such as prolonged sitting or screen time. Take frequent breaks to stretch, move around, and engage in light physical activities throughout the day.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or a community that encourages healthy habits and lifestyle choices. Having a support system can make it easier to stay motivated and committed to your weight loss goals.
By incorporating Siddha dietary recommendations and lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can support your weight loss journey and achieve lasting results healthily and sustainably. Remember to consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
