A Comparative Analysis of Ayurvedic and Modern Approaches to Lifestyle Disorders with Special Reference to Obesity: A Review

A common lifestyle disorder, obesity raises the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, which greatly increases morbidity and mortality worldwide. Pharmacotherapy, lifestyle changes, and bariatric surgery are examples of evidence-based therapies available in modern medicine, with a primary focus on physiological and biochemical processes. The ancient Indian medical system known as Ayurveda views obesity (Sthaulya or Medoroga) as a result of an imbalance of Kapha dosha and a diminished digestive fire (Agni). It emphasises a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes nutrition, herbal therapy, detoxification, and lifestyle changes. This review integrates contemporary scientific evidence with traditional Ayurvedic knowledge to critically examine various treatments. The results indicate that, by utilising the advantages of both systems, integrative treatment may improve the long-term management of obesity; nevertheless, more thorough investigation of Ayurvedic practices is necessary. Keywords: Obesity, Lifestyle disorders, Panchakarma, Pharmacotherapy, Integrative approach.