When you meet Ayurveda, when you cross your path with this millenary science, you feel that you have found the piece of the puzzle that you lacked, that in reality: Ayurveda itself, is the puzzle. You understand so many things about your daily life, your tastes and preferences, your ways of feeling and acting, your discomforts and alterations ... everything, your whole life , you understand. You understand and accept and, you respect much more others.
Ayurveda teaches us to look with different eyes, to look broad and in depth. It teaches us that from the observation everything is clear, the signs, the symptoms that the body shows us, its screams when it hurts, when it sickens, when we get angry, when we are not comfortable ... , everything is an expression of what we need, of what what are we missing. And it shows us everything that makes us and is good.
In our searches, we were lucky enough to meet Dr. Venugopal VA , from Kerala, South India, and we knew immediately that our paths would continue together, drawing a bridge between Kerala and Spain, strengthening our union to continue spreading Ayurveda from the passion we share. The D r. Venugopal is a very special being, he is more than a doctor, he is a teacher, he is a huge heart full of love in a man's body.
We share our talk on the last trip from Sukha to Kerala, the "home of Ayurveda", this past summer:
SUKHA: Ayurveda is expanding all over the world. It has crossed the borders of India to enter the West. There is curiosity, a growing interest. In recent years Ayurveda has become more known in Spain and the first thing that people ask is what does it mean? Literally from the Sanskrit the difinición is: Knowledge of the Life, Science of the Life, of the long life. Perhaps the defining Ayurveda not reach the depth nor the whole of what truly encompasses ... ¿ What is Ayurveda for you?
Dr. Venugopal: Everything that brings balance to life. I find that everyone can have different methods to find their own Ayurveda. The balance of physical, mental and intellectual health, balance in the family, in society ..., all that brings balance is Ayurveda. For this, you have to know yourself, understand yourself. If you know yourself you can bring balance everywhere. Because the human being is the instrument, if you know the instrument, you can use it better. So Ayurveda tells you how to use your instrument and find balance in everything.
Treatments can bring balance, but Ayurveda is more than treatments, it is more than medicine . There is Ayurveda in all parts of the world, in Spain, in Europe ... in the US ... everywhere , because there is everything that gives you back your balance. And the concept and philosophy Ayurveda cu allow you to understand that to nto know more Ayurveda, the more you understand how to use nature, society, everything around you, to find your balance.
SUKHA: You say that we are where we are, with the changing that this present world presents us, increasingly technological, can we live in balance with Ayurveda ?. When practicing Ayurveda outside of India we encounter many obstacles: our rhythms of life, stress as a currency is habitual, our diet, lack of time is the excuse for our diet to have fast, unnatural meals ... Here in Kerala, it is easy to do Ayurveda because it is easy to access plants, oils, doctors, we can see medicines, buy them easily in Ayurvedic pharmacies. How can we live ayurvédicamente in Europe ?, ¿how can we do Ayurveda if we do not have these plants, nor do we have enough doctors - unfortunately there is a lot of fraud on this issue?
Dr. Venugopal: It's a good question, because people believe that Ayurveda is the treatments, like the Panchakarma that you do here and that you get the people you bring every year. Yes, treatments are very necessary when you have health problems, but Ayurveda is not only solving problems but also preventing them . It's more about prevention than healing. And for this prevention you do not need a doctor or too many medicines. So for Europe the first thing is to understand the philosophy of Ayurveda, try to understand what is the balance of your Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and how to react to the changes. When you know this, you can use the local herbs, everywhere nature provides plants for the climate and the area in thethat you live. But it is difficult to understand which herb is good for everyone. If you apply the Ayurveda philosophy, its pharmacology, you can discover how to use your plants in Spain. So you do not need to have Indian herbs.
Now, if you have serious health problems, if you have to receive treatment, be hospitalized ... in that case, of course, you have to come to Kerala because we are talking about treatments for serious physical problems, otherwise you only need minor treatments that will return the balance. I think you are already providing it: different massages, shirodhara, many treatments, diets, many resources that help people to balance themselves. That's why they come back to you again and again. They come back because , even with the limitations of oils and available treatments, you are giving them back their balance. When someone experiences their balance, they like to return. SoThe big focus on Ayurveda is not strong treatments, but to restore balance and help people to achieve their balance . It can be through Ayurveda therapy, food, yoga, pranayama, meditation , music, dance, it can be through so many things ... and the person will find their own methods to balance themselves. I think that in Europe this is enough. Let's not focus on the strong treatments that are for really sick people, who have to go to the hospital. Most people s or it needs to be balanced, and thus society will be happier.This is what you are already doing, Ayurveda therapy, eating patterns based on your food, using the principles of Ayurveda, taking care of the rasas, enjoying the taste ..., asking them to try resources connected to the body, to the mind (pranayama, yoga, meditation). I think that everyone will find their balance. And that s or what can be done through traditional Ayurveda centers. So I think that in Europe , an Ayurveda Center like yours , is the best way to bring balance to people.
Little more help you need, you just need to know how to use your herbs with Ayurvedic principles . In that we should work together. We have the experience, I do not say the knowledge, because we have used it for many years, and you have your own experience. So we have to share it, choose the herbs and how to use them and prepare Ayurvedic formulas in Spain. You do not need anything from India, what you already have in Spain is the best for you. Once you have the essential Ayurvedic vision, apply it , then you will have the "Spanish" Ayurveda, and when you come to India you will have the "Indian" Ayurveda (laughter).
When you are in India, eat the Indian Ayurvedic food, when you are in Spain, eat the Spanish Ayurvedic food, your traditional food is the best for you. No junk food. That's Ayurveda: The food that brings balance is what our ancestors tried and they found it was good for them to stay in harmony. Eat your traditional food, it is the best, nothing more. That will balance your Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Because your climate is different, your food is different. Ayurveda does not mean Kerala food and treatments. When you are in your country, what you have there is the best.
SUKHA: Can you imagine your life without Ayurveda?
Dr. Venugopal: No !!! (laughs)
It is part of my life. Ayurveda brings everything together in life. It would be difficult to find balance in my professional, physical, emotional life ... so I can use the principle of Ayurveda of Pitta, Vata and Kapha. When my mind becomes Pitta I know that I get angry and I tell my friend that I have become angry, that my Pitta is there. So I do not fight against it. Ayurveda is part of you, it's s or the nature. You can name it from the philosophy of the Vedas but Ayurveda is used throughout the body and gets your total balance. There are those who seek balance through yoga or meditation, Ayurveda is another way, it helps you so much! Ayurveda says "What is good for you, use it". It gives you so much freedom! With Ayurveda you can live life more comfortable than following rules, deciding for yourself.¿ Sugar? Yes, you can take, if it helps your balance, take it. That is why Ayurveda becomes the Veda that is for the ordinary person, who will understand and love it. Is so easy. Knowing Ayurveda helps you to understand, and when you start to understand it appears love, unity, happiness and makes you return to your roots.
The change takes time, but I have found many people who come for Ayurvedic treatments, and who become less aggressive, have calmed down. That's where the healing comes from. Most people calm down and are grateful. Ayurveda therapy is definitely useful to relax people and start looking within themselves. So I think the therapy you do in Spain is good, it's helping people. Gradually they will find their balance. It is a great service, it is not a treatment, it is a help for people to find themselves.
You are invited to live Ayurveda as and from what it is: the science that helps us to know each other and with it understand how to live in balance throughout our life using what we have available in our environment, to build a life of health and harmony .
Lic. Susana Fumis
Director of SUKHA Centro AYURVEDA
Diagnostic Consultation Dosha, Massages and Treatments
PANCHAKARMA at Ayurveda Clinical Center in Kerala, India
TRAINING at AYURVEDA Annual Presencial in Madrid
TRAINING at AYURVEDA Intensive in India
www.sukhacentroayurveda.com
Ragi (FINGER MILLET) is a well known millet & consumed widely by the people all over the world.Ragi has the highest mineral & calcium content when compared to all whole grains & minerals.
It is a powerhouse of protein & amino acids. Ragi helps to reduce the heat of the body and thus helps to heal ulcers & anemia.
For Diabetics, ragi is a good food substitute.
Ragi is well accepted and digested by all age groups. It is cooked in different forms . Ragi Gruel and Ragi Drink are very popular among the geriatric population in the Indian Villages.
Nutrition Information Per 100gm
Serving Size | The serving size, in terms of the number of volume or mass |
Calories | 336 kcal |
Iron (grams) | 3.9 |
Calcium(mg) | 344 mg |
Fat (grams) | 1.3 |
Carbohydrate (grams) | 72 |
Protein (grams) | 7.3 |
Fiber (grams) | 1.3 |
Minerals (grams) | 3.9 |
It is well known now that wrong lifestyles, unnatural food, excessive or less physical activity produce toxins that build up over the time to produce stress and ill health.
Ayurveda, Nature cure, Yoga and all such traditional helath systems stress on detoxification as the main step to usher in health.
Practiced for centuries by many cultures around the world) detoxification is about resting, cleaning and nourishing the body from the inside out.
By removing and eliminating toxins and then feeding your body with healthy nutrients, detoxifying can help protect you from disease and renew your ability to maintain optimum health.
The simplest method for detox for common human is to include many of the natural food in the diet regularly.
The Food that detox are:
Green leafy vegetables: Green leafy vegetables are our greatest friends in the pursuit. They help us in detoxifying the liver. They have great chlorophyll content and can be consumed in diverse forms; raw, juiced, in gravy etc. Since the old days, they've been a favourite of people with a toxic build-up.
Fruit: They're full of almost all the good things like Vitamin C, fibre, nutritious fluids, and all kinds of antioxidants. Besides, nothing tastes better than a ripe mango, fresh berries, or a perfect pear.
Lemons: Lemons are an all time favourite. The raging case in its favour is its ability to convert toxins into water-soluble components. Its Vitamin C, considered the detox vitamin, helps convert toxins into a water-soluble form that's easily flushed away.
Green tea: Green tea has a great detoxifying effect; it is an antioxidant known for washing out toxin concentration. An added advantage is the fact that it suppresses the appetite, thus helping fight obesity.
Garlic: Garlic can be combined with anything. It can be put in salads and served with spread; it is extremely beneficial to the heart and also flush out waste from the liver by stimulating its enzymes.
Sesame seeds: They're credited with protecting liver cells from the damaging effects of alcohol and other chemicals.
Broccoli: Broccoli is part of a diet used for weight reduction, along with black beans. They pack 20 to 50 times more cancer-fighting, enzyme-stimulating activity into each bite than the fully grown vegetable.
Cabbage: There are two main types of detoxifying enzymes in the liver and this potent veggie helps activate both of them.
Beetroot : It contains methonine, one of the main detox enzymes. Beetroot also absorbs waterborne pollutants.
Acai Berry: The Acai Berry is a purple fruit from jungles of Brazil and Peru. It has high quantities of unsaturated fat and healthy pulp, which make detoxification very easy for the body.
Avocado: It contains an antioxidant, glutathione, which binds with fat soluble toxins such as alcohol.
Seaweed: It contains ingredients called alginates that prevents the body from absorbing heavy metals.
The foods you should avoid since they aggrevate detox are:
Red meat: Avoid it while on the detox diet, because red meat is harder to digest and contains a high level of fats. It should also be avoided because it contains a high level of salt and food additives. Replace red meat with chicken meat, fish and eggs.
Refined carbohydrates: Refined carbohydrates are forbidden also: cookies, biscuits or anything you are tempted to snack on all the time.
Fats: Fats like butter, margarine, fried foods and mayo are off limits too. Use virgin olive oil in your cooking, especially in your salads.
Refined sugar: Avoid eating foods full of additives, including those containing excess sugar. Cold cuts are full of food additives which intoxicate your body. During the detox diet, don't eat junk food.
No beverages: Don't drink tea, coffee or soda pops. Drink at least 8 cups of water daily, natural plant tea or fresh fruit juice.
STRESS:
Stress, triggers your body to release stress hormones into your system.These hormones can provide the 'adrenaline rush' to meet challenges and bring the best in us.
But in large amounts they create toxins and slow down detoxification enzymes in the liver.
So it's a good to detox stressful life situations along with detoxifying your body. Yoga, meditation, Rhythmic music practice of traditional arts, Holidaying in places of Nature are simple and effective ways to relieve stress.
Live Naturally, Eat Naturally, Relax Naturally to find your Natural Health.
Researchers from India have proven in a randomized clinical study using international protocols that an ancient Ayurveda remedy for anxiety outperformed the benzodiazepine drug Clonazepam (Klonopin) in relieving severe anxiety.
The researchers, from India's National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), tested 72 patients in a hospital setting who were diagnosed with severe generalized anxiety disorder using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). The test subjects were all adults between 20 and 55 years old of both sexes and most had experienced their anxiety disorder for seven years or more. They were also diagnosed with comorbid generalized social phobia.
The researchers randomly divided the patients into three groups. One group was given the standard anti-anxiety medication Clonazepam (Klonopin) at the standard prescriptive dose of .75 milligrams per day (.25mg morning, .50mg night). Another group received 200 milligrams of an Ayurvedic herbal remedy called Manasamitra Vataka (also Manasamitra Vatakam) – in two doses (100 mg each).
A third group was given the same dosage of Manasamitra Vataka but this was added to the patients' receiving an Ayurvedic treatment called Shirodhara therapy – where warmed Brahmi taila oil is poured onto the forehead of the patient.
The patients each continued their treatments for 30 days, and were evaluated at day 15 and day 30. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) testing was conducted along with Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) analysis of the patients' progress.
At the end of thirty days' treatment, the researchers found that the Manasamitra Vataka group on average had a 73% improved disposition according to the BAI testing, while the Clonazepam group on average improved 67% using the same scale. Using the HARS test scale, those patients receiving the Manasamitra Vataka plus the Shirodhara therapy saw a 91% average improvement in symptoms, while the Clonazepam group experienced a 76% improvement.
The researchers concluded that the Ayurvedic treatment not only exceeded the performance of the benzodiazepine, but came with no side effects. The researchers noted:
"Thirty days of treatment with Manasamitra Vataka reduced the anxiety, severity of the disease, increased quality of life and improved clinical profile significantly. Shirodhara as an add-on therapy to Manasamitra Vataka decreased the daytime sleepiness and improved the quality of life in the patients."
courtesy- CASE ADAMS, NATUROPATH
Amla (Phyllanthus) is also known as amlakka or amlakai in Hindi, which means the “sustainers†or the fruit where the “goddess of prosperity presidesâ€.
Amla can be used or consumed raw, dried as powder or as juice. Amla juice as well as the dried form offers a host of benefits. Dried amla can be easily prepared at home using the following steps:
Chop the raw amla into pieces and sprinkle some common salt over it.
Keep it under direct sunlight for 2-3 days until it loses all the moisture. Dried amla is ready to use.
Amla juice or powder is easily available. Try to use the organic amla juice as it does not contain any preservatives.
1. Cures Sore Throat and Cold:
Amla helps to cure sore throat and cold. For this, mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder with 2 teaspoons of honey. Have it 3-4 times in a day for effective results.
2. Rich Source of Vitamin C:
A great source of vitamin C, consume raw amla daily instead of vitamin C supplements as it is not easily absorbed by the body.
3. Reduces Constipation:
Daily consumption of raw amla reduces constipation problem, as it rich in fibres and acts as a gentle laxative. But remember to consume raw amla as powder as juice will not help in this case.
4. Heals Mouth Ulcers:
Suffering from mouth ulcers frequently? Then amla juice is the best solution for your problem. Dilute the amla juice in half a cup of water. Gargle with this mixture daily for best results.
5. Heals Arthritis Condition:
Do you know that amla benefits in reducing arthritis pain? It has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing the swelling and joint pain of knees caused due to arthritis. Have raw amla or amla juice daily in the morning.
6. Cures Sleeping Disorder:
Can’t have a peaceful sleep? Then try this “wonder fruit†to relieve stress and therefore cure sleep disorders like insomnia.
7. Improves Eyesight:
Amla is very useful in improving eyesight. It also reduces reddening, itching and watering. Mix 2 teaspoons of amla juice in half a cup of water and drink it every morning.
8. Removes Toxins from the Body:
Consumption of alcohol, pain killers, medicines etc regularly increases the build up of large amount of toxins in our body. Amla helps in maintaining the proper functioning of liver and bladder, and get rid of toxins. Have amla juice on an empty stomach every morning.
9. Regulates Acid Levels in the Stomach:
Regular consumption of amla is very good for your stomach, as it balances the acids levels of stomach and thus improving digestion.
10. Fights Off Free Radicals:
Amla is the powerhouse of anti-oxidants and thus helps in fighting off free radicals in your body. Daily consumption of raw amla or juice reduces the risk of many serious diseases including cancer.
11. Improves Metabolism:
Are you a fitness enthusiast?? Then make amla your best friend as it helps in increasing your protein metabolism. If you have a high metabolism, then you lose weight faster. Therefore those who want to lose weight, have an amla daily to increase your metabolism.
12. Strengthens Respiratory and Central Nervous System:
Amla strengthens the lungs, the respiratory system and the central nervous system of your body.
13. Boosts Immunity:
Daily consumption of an amla boosts your immunity due to its high concentration of vitamin C.
Medicinal Uses Of Amla:
14. Improves Haemoglobin and Purifies Blood:
Amla increases the haemoglobin level in blood, the RBC (red blood cells) count and purifies blood.
15. Maintains Cholesterol Levels:
Suffering from high cholesterol and looking for natural alternatives? High cholesterol levels increases the probability of heart attack and stroke. It builds up and deposits on the walls of the arteries, thus clogging them completely. For this, have 500 mg of amla powder daily with a glass of water before going to sleep. It is known to
Reduce LDL (bad cholesterol), VLDL and triglycerides level by over 40%.
Increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol) significantly.
16. Reduces the Risk of Gall Bladder Formation:
Amla reduces the risk of gall stone formation in the gall bladder.
When there is excess cholesterol in the bile, gall stones are formed.
Amla helps in reducing them as it contains vitamin C, which converts the cholesterol into bile acid in the liver.
Therefore include amla in your daily diet to cut down the risk of gall bladder stones.
17. Cures Infections and Ulcers:
It helps cure infections, ulcers and reduces fever due to its anti bacterial, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
18. Prevents Scurvy and Jaundice Outbreak:
Drinking amla juice early in the morning on an empty stomach is a natural tonic to prevent scurvy and jaundice.
19. Cures Diabetes:
Diabetes or high blood sugar is the most common and prevalent disease in the world today.
You would be surprised to know that India has the most number of type 2 diabetic patients in the world. Thus they have become hugely dependent on insulin or dialysis.
The “wonder fruit†is well known to cure diabetes naturally.
Amla is rich in chromium which regulates the carbohydrate metabolism and makes the body more responsive to insulin, which reduces the blood glucose levels.
Mix 2-3 teaspoons of amla powder or juice in a glass of water and consume daily.
20. Reduces ill Effects of Cigarette Smoke:
Studies have shown that intake of amla juice regularly reduces ill effects of the cigarette smoke in the lungs. Due to its high anti-oxidant contents, it fights off free radicals liberated from the smoke.
Skin Benefits Of Amla:
21. Delays Pre-Mature Ageing:
Due to the high concentration of anti-oxidants, Amla helps to reduce the effects of pre mature ageing, wrinkles and fine lines.
22. Reduces Facial Lines:
It tightens and tones the skin and thus reduces facial lines.
23. Exfoliates Skin:
Amla is a natural exfoliater as it helps in removing the dead cells and soothes the skin due to astringent properties.
24. Gives Soft and Supple Skin:
High content of vitamin C boosts the collagen cell production, giving you soft, supple and youthful skin.
25. Works on All Skin Types:
It can be used on every skin type without any reaction or irritation.
26. Reduces Pigmentation:
Amla is known to reduce pigmentation. With regular use, it brightens dull and dry skin.
Following are the few face packs and scrubs made using amla:
27. Amla Scrub:
Take 1 teaspoon of fresh tamarind paste.
To this, add 1 teaspoon of amla powder and mix well.
Apply all over the face and scrub gently in circular motion.
Rinse off after 10 minutes with warm water.
28. Amla and Avocado Pack:
This face pack is suitable for dry to normal skin people. Avocado is well known for its moisturizing and hydrating properties.
Mix 1 teaspoon of amla powder in water to form a smooth paste.
Add 2 teaspoons of avocado pulp into it and mix well to form a paste.
Apply and leave it for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
29. Amla Facial:
This facial can be done twice a week and it instantly gives you a refreshing feeling. It is suitable for every skin type.
Take 2 teaspoons of yogurt in a bowl.
In this, add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of the amla paste and mix well.
Apply and leave it for 20 minutes to get clean and smooth face.
30. Skin Brightening Mask:
This face pack gives you an instant brightening effect by reducing the pigmentation and dark spots. Papaya is known for its skin brightening properties due to its “papain†enzymes.
Mash a few pieces of papaya in a bowl.
In this, add a teaspoon of the amla paste and ½ teaspoon of honey.
Mix well to get a smooth consistency.
Apply and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
31. Amla and Tea Pack:
This face pack is helpful for relieving any skin disorder. It also helps to reduce the signs of ageing like wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots.
Boil and strain the tea leaves and let it cool down.
In the amla paste, add 2 teaspoons of the tea water and 1 teaspoon of honey and mix well.
Keep for several minutes after applying and wash with warm water.
32. Fresh Amla Pack:
You can boil a few pieces of amla in water and use the water to rinse your face everyday in the morning.
This water can be stored and used as an astringent.
You can also apply the boiled amla pieces directly on the skin everyday.
Hair Benefits Of Amla:
You must have seen and used various amla based hair oils, shampoos and conditioners. By now you surely must have realised why amla is so popular.
33. Cures Hair Loss:
Amla oil is being used since ancient times for hair growth and as a cure for hair loss.
34. Offers Luster to Dry & Dull Hair:
Amla powder used in hair packs strengthens the hair root and provides the lustre to dry and dull hair.
35. Controls Pre-Mature Hair Greying:
It is been used from centuries to control pre mature greying of the hair.
36. Treats Lice and Dandruff:
Amla oil is also an effective treatment for lice and dandruff.
37. Enhances Natural Hair Colour:
When used with henna powder, it helps in enhancing the natural hair colour.
Listed below are a few hair packs using amla:
38. Amla Oil Massage:
Massage your scalp at least once a week with amla oil, as it helps to increase the blood circulation in the scalp. It reduces dandruff by clearing away flakes from the scalp. It makes hair softer, silkier, smoother and bouncy. Regular hair massage with amla oil prevents pre mature ageing of the hair. You can warm the oil slightly and massage onto the scalp. You can also keep it overnight for hair conditioning.
39. Strengthening Pack:
Mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder into warm water and form a smooth paste.
In this, add 2 teaspoons of yogurt and 1 teaspoon of honey.
Mix to get a smooth consistency and apply on the hair strands and roots.
Rinse with warm water, after 30 minutes.
40. Anti Dandruff Pack:
This hair pack helps to remove dandruff flakes, cure rashes and hair fall problems. It also adds natural colour to the hair.
Take 2 teaspoons of amla powder and shikakai powder in a bowl.
Make a paste by adding the required amount of curd.
Apply this paste over your hair and keep for 15 minutes.
Rinse off with cool water and wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
41. Herbal Shampoo:
This is a popular home remedy for soft and shiny hair. This herbal shampoo gives an instant lift to your hair and makes it smooth to touch.
Soak equal quantities of dried amla, shikakai and reetha in water overnight.
Rub them together to get a soapy solution.
Use this soapy solution to wash your hair. You can also use your conditioner after this hair wash.
After reading the various benefits and uses of Amla, you will surely agree why Amla is known as the “Wonder fruitâ€.
Include Amla in your daily diet, hair packs or skin packs to make the most of it.
Do share your experience with us in the comments section below.
It might sound obvious, but scientists say obesity and depression go hand in hand among teenage girls. Either condition worsens the risk for the other in adolescent girls, a new study from Rutgers University suggests.
Though past study has long supported a strong association between the two conditions within this population, scientists may now say the two increase risk for each other — a correlation not found among boys and young men, according to study leader Naomi Marmorstein. Adolescent girls who were diagnosed with either condition were highly likely to develop the other by the time they reached adulthood.
The association held for girls and women ages 14 to 24. \"When an adolescent girl receives treatment for depression, the clinician might consider incorporating something relating to healthy eating and activity,\" she said. \"Exercise can assist in the treatment of depression to begin with, so it seems like a good reason to combine prevention efforts for both depression and obesity.\"
Marmorstein and her colleagues say clinicians should target prevention efforts for both conditions among girls in childhood and adolescence, encouraging girls to participate in sports and to get other forms of exercise.
In the study, the researchers recorded the heights and weights of 1,500 participants from the state of Minnesota, including boys and girls ages 11, 14, and 24, as well as young men and women ages 20 and 24. The participants were screened for major depression through personal interviews, and then followed as they aged. The researchers checked back with them at intervals, looking for signs of depression and weight gain by age 14 and then at 20 and then 24.
\"Adolescence is a key developmental period for both obesity and depression, so we thought it significant to look at the onset of these disorders at an early age,” Marmorstein said. \"When a person is young, she is still developing eating and activity patterns, as well as coping mechanisms. So if she experiences a depressive episode at age 14, she may be more at risk for having an onset of unhealthy patterns that persist.\"
Although why the two conditions are related was not the study’s focus, Marmorstein and her colleagues say they believe that adolescent girls starting to establish romantic relationships may be self-conscious with regard to body image.
Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in infants, children and adults, where it is responsible for more health disorders than all the vitamin deficiencies combined. Obesity requires constant care because of the numerous complications and the predisposition it creates to common and potentially serious conditions such as Diabetes mellitus, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and some forms of cancer. It is frequently associated with emotional and other psychological disturbances, all of which may interfere in a major way with the welfare of an individual, a family or a community. Obesity can be defined as an abnormal accumulation of fat in the stores of adipose tissue through out the body.
In Ayurveda it is called as Medo Roga. Ayurveda means- Ayur for life, Veda for knowledge. Ayurveda is a knowledge of life which helps in promotion of health, prevention of diseases & achieve a long life. All matter in the universe is comprised of five elements- Prithvi(Earth), Apa(Water), Teja(Fire), Vayu(Air), Akash(Ether/Sky).
They combine to form biological humors called Doshas- Vata, Pitta, Kapha. All process in our body to be governed by a balance of three doshas. Every person has a specific prakriti(Nature or the balance of Doshas unique to every individual) according to the dominancy of doshas. Well being of an individual is judged on the basis of the tridoshas. Any imbalance in the doshas, may lead to different ailments and disorders. These doshas act on the tissues of the body known as dhatus.
There are 7 dhatus in our body are – Rasa(Lymph), Rakta(Blood), Mamsa(Muscle), Meda(Fat), Asthi(Bones), Majja(Bone-Marrow), Sukra(Semen).
Meda roga or sthoulya (Obesity) is caused by excess accumulation of Meda (fat) and Vasa(Adipose tissue).
Causes
i) Genetic and environmental factors- A genetic component can be identified in many cases. Environmental considerations such as the dietetic habits of the family and economic factors are also important. Excessive intake of fried and heavy food, over eating, rich fatty and junk food, cold drinks, excessive sleep, also are responsible for increasing weight.
Many people develop the habit, taking one large meal a day, rather than three or more smaller meals. There are grounds for suggesting that such a habit is more likely to be associated with obesity than a more evenly spaced intake of the some amount of food at intervals throughout day.
ii) Physical activity- lack of proper exercise and sedentary life is more in the obese than in the lean, though the amount of energy expended by an obese person on most tasks is likely to be more because of extra weight involved. That does not, however, discount the fact that the sedentary lifestyle causes obesity and may also be caused by it since obesity also causes lethargy, shortness of breath, etc.
iii) Psychological Factors- Obese patients are often psychologically disturbed, though it may be difficult to distinguish between cause and effect. Depressed or anxious patients or the emotionally derived may seek relief in food. Many patients, especially younger adult females, are often greatly ashamed of their appearance and may be easier to treat than the older patient who has lost any ambition to recover a more youthful appearance.
iv) Endocrine factors- Adrenocortical hyper function is often associated with a gain in weight and an increase in body fat. In pregnancy, endocrine factors contribute to the increase in weight. Hypothyroidism , diminished energy expenditure may be associated with gain in weight.
The Ayurvedic point of view
Immune system mechanism of the body depends upon the agni(enzymes) and dhastus. When first dhatu rasa is defective it affects the successive dhatu, because each dahtu is nourished by the previous dhatu.
If we want to keep tridoshas in a state of health and equilibrium, Ayurveda prescribes a specific food, dincharya (daily routine), ritu charya (seasonal routine) for any specific prakriti. If a person with kapha prakriti consumes food which is sweet and heavy in nature, and indulges in a sedentary life style, sleeps during the day and performs little or no exercise whatsoever.
There is more nourishment of Meda dhatu.
Increased meda dhatu creates Shrotoavarodha(Blockage of channels)
No nourishment of further dhatus.
So there is more accumulation of Meda in the body.
Health risks of Obesity:
1) Stroke
2) Breathing problem
3) Cardiovascular diseases
4) Fatty liver
5) Gall bladder disease
6) Osteoporosis
7) Hormonal abnormalities
8) Osteoarthritis
9) Cancer
Treatment- The single most important requirement in the management of obesity is education of the patient.
“KARSHYAMEVA VARAM STHOULYAT”- lean is always better than obese, so to avoid – Longer the waist line and shorter the life line
Follow these points
1) Diet- Any successful diet means consuming fewer calories, eating less food but healthy food. Eat a healthy breakfast, a substantial lunch and a light dinner.
• Never skip breakfast
• Eat slowly and thoroughly chew your food.
• Avoid fried food.
• Eat less, but more often
• Avoid juices, cold drinks, ice creams, and food that have high quantities of sugar
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat fibre rich food, salads (lots of cucumber)
• Avoid alcohol
• Eat Fruits- watermelon, papaya, orange.
2) Exercise -
• Morning walk, jogging
• Swimming
• Yoga
3) Panchkarma and kerala therapy - Concentrates on melting the fat and removing it from the body, tighten the muscles, detoxification this can be done by Ayurvedic massage therapy, vasthi and virechana.
a) Abhayangam and udhvanthanam with special oil suitable for the body along with udhvarthnan helps to reduce weight.
b) Elakizhi
c) Podikizhi
d) Vamana
e) Virechana
f) Vasthi
Duration of treatment – It depends upon the obesity.
Medicines- Some of them are
Varnadi kashayam
Varadi kashayam
Ardhavilwam kashayam
Punarnavadi kashayam
Punarnavadi guggulu
Meda mix etc.
Source:http://blog.ayurveda-kendra.com/2010/04/obesity.html
They say you can find a cure for the common cold but you can for cancer. The common cold is related to nasopharynx, but it affects the entire body. It is mostly common during the winters when its passed around in crowded buses, airplanes and trains. According to Ayurveda Pratishyaya (common cold) is produced as a result of vitiation of Kapha dosha and it greatly affects the body’s immunity.
Top 4 Ayurvedic products for the best and the fastest cures, remain the following Ayurvedic products:
1. Fluvin Capsule– It’s the “one stop cure” for the common cold. It is antiviral, anti inflammatory and increases the body’s immunity.
2. Agasthya Rasayanam – It is a decongestant with a anti-histaminic property.
3. Thalisapatradi Choornam with honey – It releases excess cough
4. Karpooradi Thailam- Apply on the chest and face, put 4-5 drops of oil in water, boil it and take steam. It decongests the chest and is anti- inflammatory.
These are the top 5 home remedies to cure the common cold:
1. Drink ginger tea. It acts as a decongestant, helps stimulate slow digestion and improves the taste buds too.
2. Lemon juice with water and honey. It soothes sore throat, boosts vitamin C intake and releases excess cough.
3. Garlic contains antiseptic property, garlic in soups or supplements is the best remedy.
4. Tulsi and long pepper in equal quantity, ground together and rolled into small pills, take 3-4 times daily. Tulsi has antiviral, antioxidant property. It is good immune-modulator. Long pepper relieves inflammation.
5. 5 gm ginger juice mixed with one amla\'s (Indian gooseberry) juice and one teaspoon honey with a little water. It boosts body immunity and acts as a decongestant.
Prevention is definitely better than cure, here are ways to prevent it altogether:
1. Cover the head and neck with clothes
2. Gargle with hot saline water
3. Take fresh fruits and vegetables to boost your immunity
4. Keep yourself warm at all times
5. Do not sleep during the day
6. Do not sleep late
7. Do not share towels and glasses
8. Avoid deep fried and processed food
If there is uncontrolled sneezing, excess thirst, foul smell in nose, insomnia, fever of 102 F or more, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
To avoid the common cold forever, It is critical to continue build the immunity, Panchakarma is a great way to supplement and strengthen the immunity.
Source:http://blog.ayurveda-kendra.com/2013/02/top-5-ways-to-treat-cold-using-ayurveda.html
Definition – A state in which absorption of one or more substance by the small intestine is reduced. It commonly effects fat, vitamins, electrolytes, iron and amino acids.
Small intestine – consists of three part
i) Duodenum, ii) Jejunum, iii) ileum
Duodenum receives pancreatic enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver and gall bladder which are important in aiding digestion and absorption. Peristalsis also aids digestion and absorption by churning up food and mixing it with intestinal secretions. Small projections (villi) and smaller projection (microvillus) increase the surface area of the duodenal lining, allowing for greater absorption of nutrients. Jejunum and ileum are largely responsible for absorption of fats and other nutrients.
Causes -
A) Disorders of Intraluminal digestion-
i) deficiency of pancreatic lipase
ii) deficiency of bile acids
iii) If a large number of bacteria present, some of them may deconjugate bile acid.
B) Disturbance of gastric function- after gastric surgery.
C) Disorders of transport in the mucosal cell.
i) celiac disease
ii) tropical sprue
iii) giardiasis
iv) crohn’s disease
D) Disorders of transport from the mucosal cells rarely it happens – due to blockage of lymphatic system
Symptoms - Symptoms of malabsorption are diverse in nature and variable in severity. A few patients have apparently normal bowel habit but diarrhea is usual and may be watery and voluminous. Bulky, pale, offensive stools which float in the toilet. Abdominal distension broborygmi, cramps, weight loss and undigested food the stool may be present. Some patients complain only of malaise and lethargy.
Diagnosis and investigations-
1) Investigate small intestine
2) Investigate Pancreas
3) Investigate bile salt malabsorption
Modern treatment - According to the cause.
Source:http://blog.ayurveda-kendra.com/2010/07/malabsorption-syndrome.html
The less older adults sleep, the faster their brains age, a new study has warned.
The findings could have important implications for the rise of dementia among the elderly, researchers said.
Past research has examined the impact of sleep duration on cognitive functions in older adults.
Though faster brain ventricle enlargement is a marker for cognitive decline and the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, the effects of sleep on this marker have never been measured.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore (Duke-NUS) examined the data of 66 older Chinese adults, from the Singapore-Longitudinal Ageing Brain Study.
The study started in 2005 and follows a cohort of healthy adults of Chinese ethnicity aged 55 years and above.
Participants underwent structural MRI brain scans measuring brain volume and neuropsychological assessments testing cognitive function every two years.
Additionally, their sleep duration was recorded through a questionnaire. Those who slept fewer hours showed evidence of faster ventricle enlargement and decline in cognitive performance.
"Our findings relate short sleep to a marker of brain ageing," said Dr June Lo, the lead author and a Duke-NUS Research Fellow.
"Work done elsewhere suggests that seven hours a day for adults seems to be the sweet spot for optimal performance on computer based cognitive tests. In coming years we hope to determine what's good for cardio-metabolic and long term brain health too," added Professor Michael Chee, senior author and Director of the Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience at Duke-NUS.
The research was published in the journal SLEEP
