ObesitySitta (Ψ³Ω ΩΨ©) β classical name in Unani
Overview
In Unani medicine, obesity, known as Siman-e-Mufrit, is defined as a condition where excess body fat accumulates to a degree that it can negatively impact health. This accumulation can lead to a reduced life expectancy and an increased risk of various health problems.
The Unani perspective identifies several contributing factors to obesity. These include overeating (Kasrat-e-Ghiza), particularly diets high in fat (Kaseer-ush-Shahm), and a sedentary lifestyle (Ghair Mtaharrik Tarz-e-hayat) which results in fewer calories being burned, leading to fat (Shahm) accumulation. A slow metabolism (Istehala-e-Bati) and a cold bodily temperament (Soo-e-Mizaj-e-Barid) are also considered contributing factors.
Preventive measures in Unani emphasize dietary control (Taqleel-e-Ghiza), advocating for light, low-calorie foods and avoiding heavy, high-calorie options. Maintaining a balance between physical and mental activity and rest, along with regular sleep-wake cycles, is also crucial. Practices such as hot baths (Hammam-e-Haar), frequent fasting (Kasrat-e-Saum), and in some cases, venesection (Fasd) or purgatives (Ishaal), are recommended as part of a holistic approach to managing weight.
Causes According to Unani
- π¨ Kasrat-e-Ghiza (overeating): Overeating leads to weight gain, especially if the diet happens to be Kaseer-ush-Shahm (high in fat).
- π§ Ghair Mtaharrik Tarz-e-hayat (Sedentary lifestyle) results in fewer caloriesβ burn which leads to accumulation of Shahm (fat) in the body.
- π¨ Istehala-e-Bati (slow metabolism).
- π¨ Soo-e-Mizaj-e-Barid (cold temperament).
Signs & Symptoms Recognised in Unani
- β Siman-e-Mufrit (Obesity) is a condition characterized by excess body fat accumulation.
- β This accumulation can adversely affect health.
- β It may lead to reduced life expectancy.
- β It can also result in an increased number of health problems.
Therapeutic Approaches in Unani
In Unani medicine, the treatment of Siman-e-Mufrit (Obesity) focuses on restoring humoral balance and promoting the elimination of excess humors. Dietary modifications, such as Taqleel-e-Ghiza (diet restriction) with light, low-calorie foods and avoidance of heavy, high-calorie options, are paramount. Maintaining a balance in physical and psychic activity, alongside adequate rest and sleep, is also crucial for managing weight.
Traditional Unani practices include therapeutic procedures aimed at expelling morbid humors and reducing excess fat. These may involve Fasd (venesection) to purify the blood and Ishaal (purgation) as needed to clear the bowels. Hot baths (Hammam-e-Haar) are also recommended to help in reducing excess fat.
Lifestyle adjustments play a significant role in the Unani approach to obesity. Regular, moderate physical exercise (Riyazat-e-Motadil) is emphasized for burning calories and long-term weight management. Frequent fasting (Kasrat-e-Saum) is another practice encouraged to reduce the body's caloric intake and promote detoxification.
Dietary Guidance
β Favour
- Ghiza-e-Lateef qaleel-ut-taghziayah (light and low calorie diet)
β Avoid
- Ghiza-e-Kaseef Kaseer-ut-taghziayah (heavy and high calorie diet)
- Diets that are Kaseer-ush-Shahm (high in fat)
Lifestyle & Daily Routine
- β Maintain a balance in bodily and psychic movement and repose.
- β Practice normal physical and psychic rest.
- β Ensure a balanced sleep and wakefulness cycle.
- π§ Engage in moderate physical exercise for weight loss.
- π₯ Take hot baths.
- β Practice frequent fasting.
- π¨ Consider venesection.
- π§ Consider purgation as per individual requirement.
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