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Valencia, Spain
September 08-10, 2025
ICTM 2025

Ancient Indian lifestyle principles and their relevance in managing contemporary metabolic disorders

Shivaranjani Kantharia, Speaker at Traditional Medicine
J. S. Ayurveda College, India
Title : Ancient Indian lifestyle principles and their relevance in managing contemporary metabolic disorders

Abstract:

Traditional time-tested approaches to concepts such as Dinacharya (daily routines), Ritucharya (seasonal practices), Ahara (dietary wisdom) and Vihara (lifestyles) offer holistic frameworks that align with modern understandings of metabolic health. Recent scientific studies have begun validating these approaches, demonstrating how Vyayama and Yoga (exercises) improve insulin sensitivity, mindfulness practices reduce inflammatory markers, and Upavasa (time-restricted eating patterns) regulate metabolic function.
Core Ancient Indian Health Principles:

  • Dinacharya (Daily Routine): The concept of dinacharya emphasizes consistent daily routines aligned with natural cycles. Regular sleeping, eating, and activity patterns help regulate circadian rhythms, which research now confirms play crucial roles in metabolic function, hormone regulation, and insulin sensitivity.
  • Ritucharya (Seasonal Routine): Seasonal adjustments to diet and lifestyle acknowledge environmental influences on health. Modern research supports this approach, showing seasonal variations in metabolic biomarkers and the benefit of adapting dietary patterns accordingly.
  • Ahara (Dietary Principles): Traditional dietary wisdom includes: Emphasis on fresh, whole foods, Mindful eating practices, Consideration of individual constitution (prakriti), Understanding food combinations and properties, Eating according to digestive capacity (agni)
  • Vyayama (Physical Activity): Regular, appropriate exercise through practices like yoga combines strength, flexibility, balance, and mindfulness, addressing multiple aspects of metabolic health.

Application of Traditional principles to Contemporary Metabolic Disorders:
Type 2 Diabetes Management

  • Intermittent fasting parallels ancient concepts of time-restricted eating
  • Plant-based, fiber-rich diets align with traditional Indian dietary principles
  • Yoga has been shown to improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity
  • Mindfulness practices reduce stress-induced hormone disruptions

Obesity

  • Traditional emphasis on proper food combinations and eating according to hunger cues supports healthy weight management
  • Regular physical activity throughout the day instead of sedentary lifestyle
  • Mindful eating practices prevent overconsumption etc

Metabolic Syndrome

  • Holistic approach addressing multiple risk factors simultaneously
  • Stress management through meditation and pranayama improves cortisol regulation
  • Daily routine stability supports hormonal balance etc

The integration of these principles with conventional medical treatment presents promising opportunities for both prevention and management of conditions like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. This review synthesizes traditional knowledge with contemporary research to propose an integrative model that leverages ancient wisdom to address modern health challenges.

Biography:

Dr. Shivaranjani Kantharia has completed her graduation from Shree O. H. Nazar Ayurveda College, Surat, Gujarat and post graduation and PhD from J.S. Ayurveda College, Nadiad, Gujarat affiliated with Gujarat Ayurveda University, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India. Currently she has working as Associate professor and Head, Department of Roga Nidan evam Vikriti Vigyan, J.S. Ayurveda College, Nadiad, Gujarat, India. She had received Young Researcher Award at Milan, Italy during INDRA 2016. She has recipient of Best International Researcher Award and Medical, Health science & Pharmacology Innovator Award in 2023. She has presented more than 30 papers in various national and international conferences and published more than 15 research articles in peer reviewed journals. She has contributed as editor, reviewer, and editorial committee members, organizing secretary, jury, chairperson etc in various journals and conferences.

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