“EFFICACY OF VYAYAMA (EXERCISE) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY”
Dr. Manish Arora*, Dr. Darishisha L. Suting and Dr. R. P. Patwardhan
ABSTRACT
Childhood obesity has emerged as growing epidemic both in developed
as well as in developing countries in last few decades, affecting all
socio-economic groups, irrespective of age, sex or ethnicity. Globally,
an estimated 10 percent children, between 5 to 17 years of age, are
overweight or obese. Data from various parts of India reveals that in
Delhi and Chandigarh, one in every four teenagers is obese, while a
study of school children in Chennai shows 18 percent boys and 16 per
cent girls are overweight. Reduced physical activity in young children
is one of the important factors in childhood obesity. Moderate intensity
regular physical activity is essential for the prevention of overweight
and obesity as well as for treatment of the same. Ayurveda explains
vyayama (Exercise) as one of the important Dinacharya procedure
(daily regimen) to be followed by every healthy individual for
maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. Acharya Charaka
while explaining treatment of Atisthaulya (obesity) mentioned the use of vyayama in the
management of obesity. Acharya Sushruta highlights importance of vyayama as there is
nothing equal to vyayama that can reduce bulkiness (plumpness) of the body.
Keywords: Vyayama, Exercise, Childhood obesity, Physical activity.
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