lifestyle-disorder

Lifestyle Disorders: Prevention and Management with Ayurveda!

Lifestyle disorders, a group of diseases stemming from a sedentary life, have become increasingly prevalent in today’s world. Common examples include cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and stroke, obesity, overweight, and type 2 diabetes. These are non-communicable diseases that have a significant impact on global health.

The consequences of these disorders are staggering, with an estimated 17.7 million deaths per year attributed to cardiovascular disease, 8.8 million deaths from cancer, 3.9 million from respiratory infections, and 1.6 million from diabetes. Therefore, we must address these pressing health issues and initiate steps to improve our lifestyles.

Some Examples of Lifestyle Disorders includes Hypertension, Hypercholesterolemia, Obesity, PCOD, Cancer, Heart Disease, Stroke, Type – 2 Diabetes, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Etc

Causes of Lifestyle Disorders –

A sedentary lifestyle, characterised by a lack of regular physical activity, can negatively affect one’s health. Inadequate intake of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre and unhealthy eating habits, including consuming processed and sugary foods, can further exacerbate the problem. Additionally, the use of alcohol and tobacco, improper sleeping habits and physical/mental stress factors contribute to the overall decline in the well-being of an individual.

Some Common Lifestyle Disorders –

OBESITY/OVERWEIGHT

Obesity is characterised by the accumulation of excess fat in the body, leading to various health problems. The body mass index (BMI) calculates a person’s average weight, with a BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 considered healthy. Unhealthy food habits, lack of physical activity, and other factors contribute to obesity. If a person’s BMI exceeds 25, they are considered obese. The consequences of obesity can include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other lifestyle disorders, and it is a primary concern among people suffering from excessive weight.

CARDIOVASCULAR & CEREBROVASCULAR DISORDERS

Cardiovascular disorders, a collective term for diseases affecting the heart andblood vessels, are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Heart attacks and strokes are among the most common of these disorders, often caused by blockages in the blood flow from the heart to the brain. The primary culprit is fatty deposits that accumulate on the inner walls of the blood vessels that supply the heart and brain.

HYPERTENSION
Hypertension and stress of a lady

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is characterised by the excessive force of blood against the artery walls. It is typically diagnosed as blood pressure above 140/90 mmHg. Additionally, unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as a lack of physical activity can contribute to hypertension. Specific health conditions, such as diabetes and obesity also increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.

TYPE 2 DIABETES

Blood sugar level measuringType 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form of diabetes, characterised by elevated blood glucose levels. Glucose, the primary energy source, is derived from the carbohydrates in the food we consume. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively. As a result, excess glucose remains in the bloodstream and does not reach the cells. This form of diabetes is commonly seen in middle-aged and older individuals and among those who are overweight or obese and have a family history of diabetes. In addition, physical inactivity and specific health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.

Prevention is Better than Cure !!

Individuals must adopt healthier habits and make positive lifestyle changes to prevent the onset of various lifestyle diseases. Some practical tips include:

1. Incorporating regular exercise into one’s routine, such as walking, jogging, yoga, dancing, swimming, aerobics, and cycling.
2. Opting for the stairs over elevators or escalators.
3. Consuming a well-balanced diet at regular meal times, emphasising nutrient-rich foods, including carbohydrates, fibre, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
4. Avoid overeating and processed or packaged foods high in sugar, fat, salt, and calories and low in fibre, good quality protein, minerals, and vitamins.
5. Including whole grains such as cereals and millet in one’s diet and avoiding refined foods like maida.
6. Eating 400-500 grams of seasonal fruits and vegetables daily.
7. Drinking ample water and practising yoga or meditation to manage stress.
8. Abstaining from smoking and alcohol consumption.
9. Minimising sedentary activities such as prolonged television watching and engaging in outdoor games, gardening, and sports like football, cricket, and badminton.
10. Educating and encouraging others to adopt healthy lifestyle practices.
With conscious effort, it is possible to keep these diseases under control through sensible lifestyle changes.

Ayurveda for Managing Lifestyle Disorders

The aim of Ayurveda in a nutshell is – “SWASTHASYA SWASTHYA RAKSHANAM ATURASYA VIKARA PRASHAMANAM” which means Ayurveda aims at maintaining good health in a healthy person and curing the person who is diseased or sick. Therefore lifestyle disorders can be effectively managed by adopting various practices, like –

● Dinacharya (Daily Regimes) – emphasises the importance of maintaining a
consistent day-to-day routine
● Ritucharya (Seasonal Regimes) – focuses on adapting to the changing
seasons
● Panchakarma (Detoxification) – comprising five purification therapies, aims
to expel impurities from the body and
● Rasayana Chikitsa (Rejuvenation Therapy) – preventive measure to maintain
overall health and wellness

Yoga & Pranayama for Body and Mind

Yoga offers physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages. Practising yoga asanas regularly can prevent many diseases like hypertension, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, PCOS, back pain, and respiratory conditions. The following yoga asanas can give you a fit body, a fresh mind and keep lifestyle disorders at bay.
surya namaskar

  1. Surya Namaskar
  2. Savasana (Corpse Pose )
  3. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
  4. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)
  5. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
  6. Balasana (Child’s Pose)
  7. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
  8. Halasana (Plough Pose)
  9. Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
  10. PRANAYAMA – Bhramari, Ujjayi, Kapalbhati and Bhastrika

Lifestyle Disorder Management Program at RAHAAYURVEDA!

Raha Ayurveda offers specialised treatments for the management of lifestyle disorders. The protocols are set after an in-depth analysis of a person’s lifestyle, dietary habits, and occupational competencies and their effects on the presenting disease or complaints. RAHA’s highlight is authentic ayurvedic treatment with an integrated approach. Our team comprises experienced and trained Ayurvedic physicians, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Consultants, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Dieticians and Psychologists, who provide a holistic treatment plan. Our treatment protocols incorporate the principles of Ayurveda with Functional and Nutritional medicine, best suited for the management of Lifestyle Disorders!!

Book your appointment today!!


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