Weight Management and Pranayama
A Complex problem and its Easy and Safe Solution
Weight loss is the reduction of the total body weight in a short period of time.
In medical terms, weight loss can be defined as the real loss of excess fat or deposition of additional adipose tissue which is shredded from the human body to reduce the body weight without harming the general function from the human body. It influences better living, both in mind and soul.
A person’s body weight is the result of:
- the quantity of the food he/she eats
- his/her life style
- extent of his/her regular physical activities, if any
- his/her physiological and genetic factors
Weight loss may be categorized under two heads:
Unintentional weight loss is the general reduction in body weight, vitality and strength of body and mind resulting from a debilitating chronic disease. It is also associated with diseases like diabetes mellitus, lack of fluid intake, HIV, hormonal disruption, and advanced stage of cancer. This sudden and unexpected type of weight loss should be considered seriously and the consultation of a physician is absolutely necessary.
Intentional weight loss may come about in a serious and sincere effort to improve fitness and the general condition of body and mind. Even the most medically healthy persons with healthy weight undergo programs of losing weight. But losing too much weight or being underweight is not only advisable but also hazardous. It has too many health risks. An underweight person may come up against serious health problems like fighting off infection, osteoporosis, decreased muscle strength, trouble regulating body temperature and even increased risk of death.
There is a universal passion to lose weight and acquire a perfectly toned body. There are many ways of losing weight, involving a very difficult balancing task - what to eat, how to exercise, how to prepare a diet chart, the list is endless. It is very easy to talk about losing weight, but actually achieving one's weight loss goals can be a herculean task.
Weight loss techniques related to treatment of diseases and maintaining health:
There are many effective weight loss methods that do not rely on chemical drugs often recommended by the physicians. Of them, proper adjustment to eating patterns and increased physical exercise are vital. A registered dietitian can often help to form a detailed and effective diet chart for obese persons.
- Using a balanced diet by not over eating as well cutting out high calorie foods.
- Regular exercises as per expert guidance increase the rate of body metabolism and hence burn excess calories.
- Traditional breathing exercises or pranayama also have similar effects.
Points to be borne in mind:
Using fast weight reducing machineries or medicines should be avoided. Reduction of body weight is to be done scientifically and not in a hurry. The so-called 'fast weight loss' processes may cause harm to the body organs, and also give a haggard appearance due to loosening of the skin.
Similarly, advertised weight reducing food products, herbal medicines should be avoided. These present similar health risks.
