Abstract

Background: Obesity is a prevalent chronic condition that significantly contributes to various health complications such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. The weight management approaches emphasize a customized diet and exercise, while traditional yogic practices, such as Vamanadhauti (yogic therapeutic self-induced emesis), have shown results in promoting weight loss and improving overall health.
Case Presentation: A 40-year-old female patient with a BMI of 31 kg/m², diagnosed with obesity and a family history of the condition, sought alternative methods for weight management. After finding no relief, the patient preferred holistic treatments over conventional options. A combined intervention involving Vamanadhauti and a customised diet was implemented. The patient performed this Shuddhikriya (cleansing procedure), a practice of cleansing the stomach with salted water, once a week to enhance digestion, improve metabolism, and aid in weight loss. A personalized Ayurveda-based diet was prescribed, focusing on balancing the doshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha through food choices that are easily digestible and help reduce excess Kapha to combat weight gain. Regular practice of Suryanamaskar (sun salutation) contributed to weight loss, and Dhyana (meditation) further supported stress reduction.
Results: After six months, the patient lost 10 kg, resulting in a reduction of her BMI to 27.7 kg/m². Additionally, there was a significant improvement in digestion and energy levels.
Conclusion: This case report illustrates the potential of combining Vamanadhauti with a customised diet as an effective lifestyle modification for obesity management. Further studies are needed to confirm the long-term effectiveness of these traditional practices in obesity management.

Key words: Customized diet, holistic health, lifestyle modification, obesity, vamanadhauti, weight loss