Title : Ayurveda, gut health, and its interplay with inflammation in obesity: A case study-based approach
Abstract:
Background: The gut plays a central role in maintaining metabolic health, and its dysfunction is increasingly linked to chronic inflammation and obesity. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes digestive health (Agni) and gut microbial balance as key determinants of overall well-being. According to Ayurveda, weakened Agni leads to the accumulation of Ama (toxic metabolic waste), triggering systemic inflammation and disrupting lipid metabolism. Modern research parallels these findings, associating gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability with low-grade chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and adiposity.
Objective: This study aims to explore the Ayurvedic perspective on gut health and its role in inflammatory pathways that contribute to obesity. The discussion will integrate Ayurvedic dietary principles, detoxification therapies, and herbal interventions to assess their potential in mitigating gut-related inflammation and metabolic disorders. A case study will be presented to illustrate the practical application of these principles.
Methods: A narrative review of Ayurvedic classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya) was conducted alongside a literature search on gut microbiome research using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The case study involves a 42-year-old individual with obesity and gut inflammation, managed through a personalized Ayurvedic regimen including dietary modifications, herbal formulations, and Panchakarma therapies.
Results: Ayurvedic dietary principles, including personalized nutrition based on Dosha constitution, the use of digestive spices, and probiotic-rich fermented foods, offer a holistic approach to modulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. Detoxification therapies like Panchakarma, along with herbal interventions such as Triphala and Guduchi, demonstrate potential in restoring gut balance and supporting metabolic health. The case study highlights significant improvements in gut function, reduced inflammatory markers, and sustainable weight management.
Conclusion: Integrating Ayurvedic insights with contemporary gut microbiome research may provide novel strategies for obesity management through a microbiome-targeted, anti-inflammatory dietary approach. The case study underscores the clinical applicability of Ayurvedic interventions in managing gut-related obesity. Future research should focus on validating Ayurvedic therapies through molecular and clinical studies to bridge traditional wisdom with modern nutritional science.
