A short-term clinical survey to scientifically evaluate the Nidana of Atisthaulya (etiological factors of obesity) mentioned in Caraka Samhita

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.