Gaining weight in a healthy and balanced manner can be a challenging task, especially when most of the available information tends to focus on weight loss. However, Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine from India, offers effective strategies for those seeking to gain weight naturally.
In Ayurveda, weight gain is approached holistically, considering an individual’s constitution and overall health rather than just a number on the scale, says Dr Mrunal Gole, an Ayurvedic consultant at Birla Ayurveda. By addressing various aspects of lifestyle, diet, mindset, and herbal supplements, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to healthy weight gain.
One of the fundamental principles of Ayurveda is that optimal weight is determined by an individual’s constitution rather than societal norms. Each person has a unique body type, or Dosha, which influences their metabolic rate, digestion, and overall physical characteristics. Therefore, Ayurvedic approaches to weight gain focus on restoring balance to the body’s natural functioning rather than simply increasing calorie intake.
Ayurvedic therapies for weight gain operate on multiple levels to promote holistic and sustainable results. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on any weight gain regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
An Ayurvedic Approach to Weight Gain Naturally:
Center Your Mind:
Stress and anxiety can negatively impact digestion and nutrient absorption, making it difficult to gain weight. Therefore, it’s essential to cultivate mental stability and calmness to support the body’s ability to derive nourishment from food. Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and stress reduction techniques can help achieve this balance.
Follow a Routine:
Maintaining a regular daily routine aligns the body’s internal processes with the natural rhythms of the day, promoting optimal digestion and metabolism. Eating meals at consistent times, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in daily activities in harmony with nature’s cycles can support healthy weight gain.
Practice Yoga Daily:
Yoga offers a holistic approach to health, combining physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote overall well-being. Certain yoga practices, such as alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana), can help soothe the nervous system, improve mental disposition, and support healthy weight gain by redirecting vital resources to the body’s tissues.
Take Proper Rest:
Adequate rest is essential for the body to repair and regenerate tissues, optimize metabolic function, and promote overall health. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and prioritizing quality sleep can support healthy weight gain by allowing the body to fully absorb and utilize nutrients from food.
Eat at Least Three Complete Meals Daily:
Regular and balanced meals provide essential nutrients and energy needed for weight gain. Aim for three nutritious meals per day, incorporating a variety of whole foods such as grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and healthy fats. Avoid skipping meals or relying on processed foods, which may hinder weight gain efforts.
Herbs for Weight Gain:
Ayurveda recommends certain herbs and herbal formulations to support healthy weight gain when appropriate. Some herbs known for their nutritive and rejuvenating properties include Ashwagandha, Triphala, Yashtimadhu, and Chyawanprash. These herbal preparations contain substantial and nourishing properties that aid with weight gain. For example, Ashwagandha is a significant element in Ashwagandhadi Lehyam, which is primarily intended to improve muscle strength, but it can also be used to increase weight, advises Dr Mrunal Gole.
Ghee as a Remedy for Ayurvedic Weight Gain:
Ghee, or clarified butter, is considered a potent Ayurvedic remedy for weight gain. It is rich in healthy fats and supports digestive fire (Agni), making it easier for the body to absorb nutrients from food. Consuming ghee regularly, especially with meals, can help increase appetite, nourish tissues, and promote healthy weight gain.
Food & Diet:
Incorporating calorie-dense foods into your diet can support healthy weight gain. Some examples include bananas, potatoes, dry fruits, nuts, dairy products, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients and energy needed for building muscle mass and promoting overall weight gain.
Promoting Appetite through Exercise and Yoga:
Contrary to common belief, exercise and yoga can actually support weight gain when combined with a balanced diet. Exercise increases appetite, boosts metabolism, and promotes natural detoxification, all of which are beneficial for healthy weight gain. Incorporating gentle forms of exercise and yoga into your daily routine can help stimulate appetite and support overall well-being.
In conclusion, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to healthy weight gain that focuses on restoring balance to the body’s natural functioning. By addressing diet, lifestyle, mindset, and herbal supplements, individuals can support their body’s innate ability to gain weight in a sustainable and harmonious manner. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any weight gain regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness. You can book an online consultation with one of our doctors at Birla Ayurveda and start your journey towards wellness today. With patience, consistency, and a holistic approach, Ayurveda provides effective tools for achieving healthy weight gain and promoting overall well-being.
