Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, with a rising number of children facing health issues due to excessive weight gain. The modern lifestyle, characterised by an abundance of processed foods and sedentary activities, has contributed significantly to this problem. However, the good news is that you can treat and prevent obesity. We spoke to our expert Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, who shared ayurvedic approaches and remedies to help children achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
What Is Childhood Obesity
Dr Chaudhary explained, "Obesity in children is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for their age and sex. It is a complex issue with various causes, including genetic factors, diet, lack of physical activity, and lifestyle choices." According to the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, children who are overweight and obese are more prone to staying obese in adulthood and developing non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Ayurvedic Approach to Childhood Obesity
Dr Chaudhary said that ayurvedic remedies focus on rebalancing the doshas and promoting overall well-being. Here are some expert-recommended tips that you should follow:
Dietary Adjustments
- Balanced Meals: Dr Chaudhary said, "Ayurveda emphasises the importance of balanced meals that include all six tastes – sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. This helps satisfy the taste buds and prevents overeating."
- Favouring Warm Foods: Warm, cooked foods are recommended as they are easier to digest, filling and satisfying, leading to fewer cravings and overeating. Avoid cold, heavy, and oily foods.
- Limiting Sugar and Processed Foods: Reducing the intake of sugary and processed foods is crucial. According to the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and beverages with added sugar can raise a child's body fat percentage, BMI/BMI z-score, and risk of being overweight.
- Herbal Supplements: Incorporating ayurvedic herbs like Triphala, Guggul, and Shilajit can help improve digestion and metabolism.
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular Exercise: Encourage children to engage in physical activities that they enjoy. Ayurveda suggests yoga and other exercises that align with an individual's constitution.
- Adequate Sleep: It is important to get adequate sleep to maintain a healthy weight. Hence, make sure that your child sticks to a regular sleep schedule.
- Limit Screen Time: Reducing screen time, especially during meals, can help prevent mindless eating.
Ayurvedic Herbs and Remedies
- Triphala: Triphala is a popular ayurvedic remedy known for its digestive and detoxifying properties. It can help regulate digestion and metabolism, thus helping in facilitating the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
- Guggul: Guggul is often used to improve lipid metabolism and promote weight loss. However, it is necessary to consult an ayurvedic practitioner for the appropriate dosage.
- Honey and Cinnamon: Mixing honey and cinnamon in warm water is believed to help in weight management. However, make sure you use this remedy in moderation.
- Ayurvedic Detox (Panchakarma): Dr Chaudhary added, "Under the guidance of an ayurvedic practitioner, Panchakarma treatments can be effective in detoxifying the body and rebalancing doshas."
Stress Management
Did you know stress can lead to overeating and weight gain in children? Hence, Dr Chaudhary suggested to teach stress-relief techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness to your children.
Individualised Treatment
Dr Chaudhary said, "Ayurveda recognises that each child is unique, and the approach to treating obesity should be tailored to their specific constitution and imbalances."
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, consult an ayurvedic practitioner who can provide personalised recommendations and monitor your child's progress on the path to better health. ]