Category: Female Health

June 3, 2019

Ayurvedic Regimen for the Pregnant Woman(GARBHINI PARICHARYA)

Overview

Ayurveda considers pregnancy and child birth as a holistic condition in a woman’s life. During pregnancy mother needs extra care in terms of nourishment as there is another life depending on her. So, it is very important to take care of mother’s health before, during and after the pregnancy as the cases of growth retardation and congenital anomalies occur due to improper diet and malabsorption. In our ancient textbooks of Ayurveda, there is a proper description of garbhini paricharya which includes proper diet, nutrition, the conduct of behavior and medication under the heading of:

Ayurvedic Regimen for the Pregnant Woman

  1. Masanumasika Garbhini Paricharya ( Monthly Dietary Regimen )
  2. Garbhini swathya rakshanartha ( emphasing garbhin aahara, vihara, mansikasthithi, Aushadha and Suchitva)

According to this text described in our classics, Antenatal care should begin soon after the conception and continue throughout the pregnancy. A balanced and adequate diet is therefore of utmost importance during pregnancy and lactation.  Also to avoid the complications like the risk of miscarriage, toxemia , anemia , damage to fetus and others, there is a provision of Garbhini paricharya (Antenatal Care)  for the pregnant woman which is described as under :

FIRST TRIMESTER

During the First Month of Pregnancy:
First Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • Most women during the first month complain of nausea and vomiting and cannot consume a proper diet. So Maharishi Charka has advised  taking non –medicated cold milk repeatedly in desired quantity and should take Satvic Aahar according to her digestive power and strength during the first month of pregnancy.

During the Second Month of Pregnancy:
Second Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • According to this Shloka during the second month of pregnancy the mothers should have milk medicated with sweet herbs like Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Bala (Sidacardifolia) etc.

During the Third Month of Pregnancy:
Third Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • Acharya Charka has suggested  adding honey and Ghrita (Cow’s ghee) to milk during the third month of pregnancy.Milk should not be hot while adding the honey (it should be at room temp.). Honey and ghee should be in unequal quantity like mix 2 tsf of ghee + 1 tsf of honey to a cup of lukewarm milk.

During the first trimester (1 to 3rd month) Maharishi Sushruta has advised sweet, cold and liquid diet to the pregnant mother.  Along with this Shashti rice can be taken in the 3rd month.

SECOND TRIMESTER

During the Fourth Month of Pregnancy:

Third Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  •  Milk with butter (unsalted fresh) or butter extracted from the cow’s milk is advised by Maharishi Charka in the quantity of 1 aksha (1 tola = 12 grams).

During the Fifth Month of Pregnancy:
Fifth Month of Pregnancy

Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • Mothers should take at least 7-8 tsf of Ghrita (Cow ghee) prepared with butter (extracted from milk) in the 5th month.

During the Sixth Month of Pregnancy:
Sixth Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • During 6th month warm milk with sweet herbs like Liquorice and Shatavari should be taken the early morning at empty stomach.

According to Maharishi Sushruta pregnant mothers should take cooked Shashti rice with curd, dainty and pleasant food mixed with butter and meat of wild animals in 4th and 5th month and during the 6th month – Ghrita or Yavagu ( rice gruel ) medicated with gokhur is advised.

THIRD TRIMESTER

During the Seventh Month of Pregnancy

Seventh Month of Pregnancy

(Ref: Charaksamhita (Sharirsthanam) Chapter 8, Shloka 31-1)

  • In 7th month Charka has prescribed the same diet regimen as in 6th month (rice gruel prepared with milk).

During the Eighth Month of Pregnancy:

  • In 8th month Milk based sweet porridge is recommended, also mothers can have gruel made of rice, sooji, wheat mixed with ghrita. Gruel should be eaten once a day only.

During the Ninth Month of Pregnancy:

  • In the 9th month, mothers need more nourishment. Anuvasan basti with oil is recommended in 9th month prepared with the drugs of madhura group or vaginal tampoon (prepared with the same) is advised for the lubrication of garbhasthana (cervix, uterus) and garbhamarga (birth canal, perineum).
  • Ghrita medicated with prithakparnyadi (Vidarigand haldi) group of herbs is advised by Maharishi Sushruta for pregnant mothers.
  • This consumption of ghrita in the 9th month will help in proper growth and development of the fetus.
  • Maharishi Sushruta has indicated Aasthapan basti prepared with decoction (badarqwath) to clear the retained feaces and anulomana (regulation) of Vata which helps in  normal delivery without any complications.

DISCUSSION:

  • The First trimester of pregnancy is very crucial as most women experience nausea and vomiting during this period.
  • The body of a woman undergoes a lot of physiological changes. Therefore to provide proper nourishment to mother and foetus use of cold, sweet, liquid diet, milk, honey, ghrita and herbs of madhura group is advised.
  • During the second trimester, the fourth month onward there is the growth of muscular tissues of fetus which can be promoted  by the use of meat – soup (providing more proteins).
  • Mostly women suffer from edema of feet and other complications of water retention in pregnancy. Ayurveda has advised the use of Gokshura a very good diuretic in the 6th month for water retention.
  • The other herbs of vidari gandhadi group are diuretic, anabolic, and balance the three doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha, are used in the 7th month of pregnancy.
  • Due to the pressure of gravid uterus over the bowels and effect of progesterone, most women may suffer from constipation in late pregnancy. Therefore the use of enema (Anuvasan basti) in the 8th month is advised.
  • In Ayurveda, Milk and herbs of Madhura group have been advised for the utmost entire period of pregnancy. Milk (Cow’s milk) is considered as a whole diet In Ayurveda. Cow’s milk is a rich source of calcium and minerals which are essential for both mother and foetus.
  • The Demand  for calcium is increased during pregnancy mostly during the last trimester. Milk (Cow’s milk ) provide adequate levels of calcium , vitamin D and proteins which are needed for the pregnant mothers to avoid the several health problems in a fetus like osteoporosis, rickets , low birth weight.
  • Milk (Cow’s milk) is considered as a complete food in Ayurveda which acts as a rejuvenator, promotes immunity, improves satva guna and also helps to enhance positive characteristics. Milk is also called as the Satvic Food in Ayurveda texts.
  • In Ayurveda – Honey acts as a natural sweetener and has many anti-bacterial and analgesic actions. Honey helps to improve the defense mechanism during pregnancy.
  • Due to high progesterone levels in pregnancy, mothers suffer from esophagitis and heartburn (nausea and vomiting) are seen commonly.
  • In this condition honey helps to reduce heart burn and discomfort in the gut. Honey also helps to reduce symptoms of morning sickness and vomiting.
  • Ghrita (cow’s ghee) is described as smritivardhaka (enhances memory) and buddhiwardhaka (enhances intelligence). During Pregnancy, Ghrita is advised to prevent constipation and to aid digestion that gets disturbed due to high progesterone level and diminished physical activity in pregnancy.
  • There is a recommendation of Shasti rice which is sweet and astringent in taste, easy to digest, and have cool potency.
  • It pacifies tridosha (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and is ideal for anemic patients.

CONCLUSION:

Ayurveda describes Garbhini Paricharya i.e. antenatal care in which the pregnancy diet is recommended to

  1.  Maintain the health of the mother and foetus
  2. Increase the strength and vitality required during labor
  3. Maintain postpartum health of mother and successful lactation.

There is the provision of the diet which is light, nutritious, easily digestible and rich in protein, minerals and vitamins under the title of Garbhini Paricharya in Ayurveda.

Herbal Remedies for Healthy pregnancy

HERBS USEFUL FOR MAINTENANCE OF PREGNANCY BY PLANET AYURVEDA:

Planet Ayurveda recommends various herbal remedies which are very effective during pregnancy in women. These herbal remedies help the mother by avoiding pregnancy related problems  like indigestion, acidity, constipation etc. The herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda includes Shatavari, Amla, and Punarnava etc. All these remedies are pure, 100 % vegetarian, safe and effective.

DOSAGE:

  1. Shatavari Capsules: Two capsules two times a day with plain water after meals.
  2. Amla Saar: Three teaspoonful twice daily, morning and evening with an equal amount of water.
  3. Punarnava Mandoor: Two tablets two times a day after meals with plain water.
  4. Spirulina Capsules: Two Capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

SHATAVARI CAPSULES

  • In Ayurveda, Shatavari also known as Satavari (Asparagus Racemosus) is considered as one of the most vital herbs for women as it helps in balancing the female hormone system.
  • Shatavari is an old-age Ayurvedic formula that is used to treat infertility  in both men and women. Shatavari is 100 % pure organic herb,  considered as a boon for lactating mothers as it is known to increase the blood flow. Shatavari capsules are very useful for the treatment of pregnancy related symptoms.
  • This herb also helps women in regularizing menstrual cycles, treating pre and post-menopausal symptoms and sexual disorders. Shatavari is also called as a rejuvenating herb for women as it cleanses and nourishes the blood and the female reproductive organs.
  • The Shatavari capsules are given to reduce the problems of menstruation like pain, cramps, loss of blood etc. During pregnancy Shatavari capsules are given to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness, vomiting and tiredness. Shatavari capsules also help in problems related to infertility, leucorrhea, and in regulating ovulation.

Amla Saar

  • The Amla Saar is a very effective herb used in pregnant women. It has the richest source of natural vitamin C, that is very useful for the symptoms of acidity in pregnant ladies.
  • This is an excellent anti-aging remedy, improves digestion, the functioning of the brain, regulates blood sugar and increases hemoglobin. Amla Saar is 100 % pure, safe, chemical free and purely vegetarian. It is also used for the treatment of ulcers and hyperacidity.
  • According to Ayurveda it is considered as one of the best herb for Diabetes, bleeding disorders, and promotes strength and stamina. Amla Saar is made up of standardized extract of Amla fruit pulp which has the highest content of vitamin C of any natural occurring substances in nature.

Spirulina Capsules

  • Spirulina is very useful for the treatment of pregnant women. It is the best source of antioxidants like carotenoids, vitamin E, Zinc and selenium that fights against free radicals, and slow down the aging process.
  • Spirulina Capsules are given to pregnant women as being the richest vegetarian source of vitamin B 12 helps to reduce the physical and mental stress. Spirulina is used in females to balance the various hormonal imbalance and overall health of women. These capsules help to maintain normal hemoglobin level in the blood, builds immunity and maintain a healthy heart.

Punarnava Mandoor

  • Punarnava Mandoor is known to act as a natural diuretic and given to pregnant women to reduce the symptoms like swelling. It helps to remove the toxins from the blood thus helps in decreasing Urea/ Creatinine levels
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May 15, 2019

What Diet You Should Eat to lose Weight

Overview

‘Weight loss‘ is the greatest problem the present world is facing. Physical activity has minimized in the last decade due to the easy availability of any product online  thus making the whole world more lethargic. And there is a common jinx that physical activity makes you lose your status in public, but all this, in fact, is not true, you tend to go lazy and gain lots of weight and become obese, a dent in your physical personality.

Your diet and how well you move physically act simultaneously. The way you eat doesn’t matter and what matters is what you eat and how well you do exercise to maintain  good health. Eating certain foods keep your  abdominal area in control and doesn’t allow it to expand and makes you look chubby.

Such foods also have lots of nutrients that keeps your muscular power strong and your body feels more flexible. Even when you are dining outside or partying you don’t need to concentrate on healthy foods, ’cause once in a blue moon’ you can have some wrong food and it never affects your health as your blood sugar level is in a stable condition.

Don’t make it a habit otherwise it’s your body that has to face the music. Many experts believe in some foods that keep your weight in control, thus spurting up your metabolism.

How to lose weight naturally

What Diet You Should Eat to lose Weight?

  • Not a single food works as a magic wand and makes you lose weight in seconds or minutes. There are many foods that need to be combined together to get  positive results of weight loss.
  • Most of these foods have one thing in common, all are rich in fiber and this thing makes you feel full for a longer time. And all have a low calorie count, you might eat a hefty sum of this food, but the calories in your body don’t enhance.

Diet Plan for Weight Loss

If you wish to lose weight. I prescribe the following diet;

1. Avocadosyogurt for weight loss

  • Avocados have an abundance of dietary fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids, phytochemicals and potassium. A study was done and it was found that people who did eat avocados had  less circumference than the people who skip eating this green super fruit.
  • Avocados have lots of calories in it, but its fat & fiber when combined can make you go slim. Add it in your salad, sandwich or taco night for a unique flavor and creaminess.
  • Most of the other fruits have immense carbohydrates and avocados have lots of healthy fat. No doubt all contain mostly fat, avocados also contain a lot of water and fiber, thus making them less energy-dense than you might begin to think.
  • Their fat content can increase carotenoid antioxidant absorption from the vegetables. They also contain many important nutrients.

2. Beans and Legumes:

Healthy diet For obesity

  • Some of the beans and legumes are very effective in losing weight such as lentils, kidney beans, black beans etc. These foods have a high dosage of proteins and fiber, these two make you feel totally hunky dory. They also have some resistant starch in them.
  • The main factor that comes to the fore is that the majority of the people have difficulty in tolerating legumes, but first learn how to prepare them in the best ways and then proceed. When you have beans, they prove to be your friend while losing weight.
  • Consuming both these foods also help in lowering the blood pressure, reducing the risk of any cardio-vascular problem and reduce the LDL cholesterol level. You can try having the beans in your daily home-made diet, soups, and salads.

3. Yogurt:

Diet for obese people

  • Yogurt is an excellent food that is filled to the brim with proteins, which prove to be great for your gut area and helps when you try to lose weight.
  • It also contains fiber and probiotics that keep your gut bacteria in a healthy state, which is great to maintain your metabolism of the body.
  • Go and eat Greek yogurt which reduces appetite and enhances satisfaction. But better remain alert that it should be available in the original form and no artificial sugar is added to it. If you wish to add sweetness, add some fresh sweet fruit to it.
  • Some types of yogurt contain probiotic bacteria that enhance the functions of your gut area. A healthy gut can prevent leptin resistance, which is the main catalyst guilty of causing obesity.
  • Be alert while choosing the right yogurt which is live and active in cultures, as other types of yogurt contain no probiotics.
  • Choose a full-fat yogurt. Studies show that full-fat dairy and not low-fat dairy, and is linked with a reduced risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes over a long time. Low-fat yogurt  usually contains lots of sugar, so it’s better to avoid it.

4. Fresh fruits:

  • Fruits are generally ignored by fat people as most contain a sweet taste and making everyone think that they have sugar in them. But all are wrong as they contain a natural sugar that is not harmful to the obese persons.
  • Instead of opting for sweet snacks that contain processed sugar, these help in losing weight. Thus you can reap in the benefits of fiber content and anti-oxidants.
  • According to recent research it was found that people who become habitual in eating sweet fruits, had very less chance of getting obese and losing their original shapes.
  • One who eats lots of fruits doesn’t have to worry about veggies and fiber intake, although eating fresh & organic fruits along with a healthy diet is the best strategy to stay fit & fine. Fruits do have properties, which make them weight-loss-friendly.
  • They contain a low energy density and take some time to chew. Plus, their fiber content helps in restricting sugar from being released in a fast manner into your bloodstream.
  • Only those people who may want to avoid or minimize fruits are those who are on a very low-carb ketogenic diet or have an intolerance.

Majority of the organic fruits can be an effective and delicious, in addition to a weight loss diet.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar:

  • It has an immense popular name in the community of natural health. Mostly it is used in dressing or vinaigrette of the dishes to enhance their flavor, but some people dilute it by adding some plain water to it and drink it as a health drink.
  • Many studies have shown it to reduce weight. If you take this drink along with your meals it will certainly reduce your appetite and your intake of calories, it makes you feel happy and totally satisfied with the rest of the day.
  • Vinegar was also found to reduce the sugar level in the blood that zooms up after every meal, and has positive effects on your health in the long run

Other Fruits and Veggies

  • There are many other fruits and veggies like popcorn, almonds, whole grains, cottage cheese, various kind of soups, boiled potatoes that also reduce weight.
  • People in the current times believe more in gossip  and are unaware about the facts that fruit and veggies contain the natural sugars, which never expand your abdominal area making you look a funny flabby, and thus making you go through the floor. All these fruits and veggies are going places these days.
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