Abstract:
The objective of this study was to evaluate the Nidana of Atisthaulya (etiological factors of
obesity) mentioned in Caraka Samhita. Twenty-nine patients, age between 20-60 years, were
selected from the O.P.D. of Ayurvedic Teaching Hospital, Borella. Qualitative and quantitative
data were gathered and recorded in a specially prepared proforma, while body mass index (BMI)
was considered as the assessment criteria. Analysis of the data revealed the maximum percentage
of patients (79.3%) were obese having BMI between 30.0-39.9 kgm-2, while the rest (20.7%)
were morbidity obese with BMI above 40.0 kgm-2. The results revealed that majority of the
patients had showed the usage of excessive amounts of oily food items (Snigdha Ahara: 89.6%)
as dietary factors, lack of adequate physical exercises (Avyayama: 65.5%) as lifestyle factors and
a positive heredity (Bija-svabhava: 41.4%). The findings of this study strongly corroborate and
validate the Nidana of Atisthaulya (etiological factors of obesity) mentioned in Caraka Samhita.
Further, they point out the necessity of an individualized obesity management plan incorporating
a well-balanced dietetic regimen with proper physical and mental exercises.
