Home Specialities General What to do about PCOD, the hunger wars, or both

What to do about PCOD, the hunger wars, or both

December 28, 2023

376

How Does Ayurveda Help You Cope with PCOD and the Hunger Wars?

Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) often feels like fighting two battles simultaneously: managing the physical symptoms of hormonal imbalances and dealing with intense hunger pangs or cravings (Norman et al., 2007; Teede et al., 2018). Irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and mood swings are compounded by unpredictable cravings, making it challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Conventional treatments focus on symptom management, leaving many women searching for holistic and sustainable solutions.

Ayurveda provides a comprehensive approach that addresses not only the hormonal issues of PCOD but also the cravings associated with it. By restoring doshic balance, detoxifying the body, and enhancing digestion, Ayurveda helps women break free from these “hunger wars” and regain control of their health (Frawley, 2000; Lad, 2002; Pole, 2013).

At EliteAyurveda, we specialize in individualized Ayurvedic care that empowers women to overcome PCOD and its associated challenges through natural, effective methods.

Why Does PCOD Cause Hunger Wars?

PCOD often leads to insulin resistance, a key factor behind unstable blood sugar levels and intense cravings (Teede et al., 2018). In Ayurveda, these cravings reflect Kapha and Vata imbalances:

Kapha Dominance: Sluggish metabolism and weight gain contribute to cravings for comfort foods.
Vata Aggravation: Causes erratic hunger and heightened emotional responses.
Hormonal Fluctuations: Trigger mood swings and emotional eating.

By addressing these imbalances, Ayurveda aims to stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce cravings, and support hormone regulation (Frawley, 2000; Sharma et al., 2007).

The Emotional and Physical Challenges of PCOD

Women with PCOD often face multifaceted struggles:

Weight Struggle: Unexplained weight gain can erode self-esteem and complicate daily routines (Norman et al., 2007).
Cravings and Guilt: Intense hunger leads to overeating, followed by guilt and shame, fueling a vicious cycle.
Mood Swings: Hormonal imbalances contribute to anxiety, irritability, and sadness.
Body Image Issues: Acne, hair thinning, and other changes can affect confidence.
Irregular Cycles: Uncertain menstrual patterns add stress and affect reproductive planning.

Ayurveda acknowledges these struggles and focuses on creating balance, helping women regain control over their health and emotions (Tiwari, 1999).

Ayurvedic Approach to Managing PCOD and Hunger Wars

Ayurveda addresses both the physical and emotional dimensions of PCOD, providing a path to holistic and long-term well-being.

1. Balancing the Doshas

PCOD is often associated with Kapha and Vata imbalances:

Kapha-Reducing Measures: Warm, light foods and regular exercise boost metabolism.
Vata-Calming Practices: Consistent meal times, stress reduction, and mindfulness stabilize hunger and emotions.

2. Strengthening Digestive Fire (Agni)

Weak digestion contributes to cravings and energy fluctuations (Frawley, 2000; Pole, 2013):

Herbal Support: Personalized herbal medications improve digestion and hormone regulation.
Spices: Cumin, fennel, and coriander enhance Agni and support metabolic health.

3. Detoxification to Remove Toxins (Ama)

Accumulated toxins worsen PCOD and cravings (Sharma et al., 2007):

Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Cleanses the digestive tract and balances hormones.
Basti (Medicated Enema): Reduces Vata-related symptoms like irregular hunger patterns.

4. Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments

Ayurveda emphasizes dietary and lifestyle changes for sustainable relief:

Diet:
- Low-Glycemic Foods: Whole grains, vegetables, and legumes stabilize blood sugar.
- Avoid Processed Foods: Limiting sugar and refined carbs prevents insulin spikes.
Lifestyle:
- Gentle exercises (yoga, walking) improve insulin sensitivity and circulation.
- Stress management (meditation, Pranayama) reduces emotional eating.

5. Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Ayurveda integrates emotional care:

Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Calms Vata and reduces stress-induced cravings.
Mindfulness Practices: Encourage self-awareness to manage emotional eating and build self-esteem.

Case Study: Managing PCOD and Hunger Wars

Patient Profile:

Name: Riya (Name Changed)
Age: 29
Symptoms: Intense sugar cravings, irregular cycles, weight gain.

Treatment Plan at EliteAyurveda:

Detoxification: Monthly Virechana to remove toxins and balance hormones.
Herbal Medications: Formulations to regulate appetite and stabilize cycles.
Dietary Guidance: Kapha-reducing meals with a focus on low-glycemic foods.
Yoga & Meditation: Daily routines to reduce stress and improve metabolic health.

Outcome:

3 Months: Reduced cravings and weight stabilization.
6 Months: Regular cycles and improved emotional well-being.

Our Ayurveda Treatment for PCOD / PCOS

A woman in her twenties came to EliteAyurveda for help when her acne and weight gain got out of hand. She had skipped 4 periods in the prior 6 months and had gained more than 8 kilogrammes. She also noted a rise in her facial hair, which she found distressing. The scan diagnosed PCOS, and the blood test revealed increased fasting blood sugar. Since then, she underwent treatment with us, where she slimmed down and changed dramatically.

Her cycles stabilised, and many of her previous complaints vanished.

Treatment for PCOS at EliteAyurveda can last anywhere from 30 to 90 days and consists of personalised treatments and therapies that have a lasting impact on PCOS symptoms and weight gain. Our experts will tailor your PCOS treatment plan in Ayurveda based on the severity of your condition and the specific changes to your food and way of life that are necessary to restore your health.

Why Choose Ayurveda for PCOD Management?

Root Cause Treatment: Addresses dosha imbalances and weak digestion that fuel PCOD and cravings.
Personalized Care: Treatments tailored to individual constitutions ensure effective results.
Safe & Natural: Herbal medications minimize side effects.
Holistic Healing: Integrates physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Key Takeaways

PCOD leads to hormonal imbalances and cravings, creating a cycle that Ayurveda helps break.
Detoxification, herbal medications, and mindful eating form Ayurveda’s foundation for sustainable relief.
Personalized care and emotional support ensure patients feel empowered and in control of their health.

Conclusion

Coping with PCOD and its associated hunger wars can feel overwhelming, but Ayurveda provides a path to long-term balance and healing. By addressing the root causes, supporting digestive health, and managing stress, Ayurveda empowers women to reclaim their energy, confidence, and well-being.

At EliteAyurveda, we’re committed to guiding you toward hormonal harmony and a healthier life.

Take the first step toward better health today. 📞 Call us at +91 8884722246 🌐 Visit: www.eliteayurveda.com

GET IN TOUCH

Schedule a Visit

References

Norman, R. J., Dewailly, D., Legro, R. S., & Hickey, T. E. (2007). Polycystic ovary syndrome. Lancet, 370(9588), 685–697.

Pole, S. (2013). Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Singing Dragon.

Sharma, H., Chandola, H. M., Singh, G., & Basisht, G. (2007). Utilization of Ayurveda in health care: An approach for prevention, health promotion, and treatment of disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 13(9), 1135–1150.

Teede, H. J., Misso, M. L., Costello, M. F., et al. (2018). Recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1602–1618.

Dutta D.C. Text book of Gynaecology. 4th edition. Culcutta: New central book Agency LTD; p. 421. (431, 523, 549, 558). [Google Scholar]
Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia Vol I part I. Department of Ayurveda. 1985:173. [Google Scholar]
Ibid (2), part III. (82, 110, 177, 235, 269, 305, 313, 321, 344, 358).:25. [Google Scholar]
Jayaweera D.M.A. Medicinal plants (Indigenous and Exotic) used in Ceylon. The National Science Council of Sri Lanka. 1981 Part-I, 9,11pgs, Part-V, pg. 149, Part-IV, pg. 81. [Google Scholar]
2007. Dec 14th, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polycystic_ovary_syndrome .
.Tewari P.V. Ayurveda Prasuti Tantra Evam Stri Roga, Stri Roga, Chaukambha Orientale. Varanasi: 1996. p. 169. (192). Part-II. [Google Scholar]
.Sharma P.V. Charaka Samhita (English Translation) Chaukambha Orientalia. Varanasi: 1981. [Google Scholar]
Srikantha Mruthi K.R. Sushruta Samhita (English Translation) Chaukambha Orientale. Varanasi: 2001. pp. 170–173. [Google Scholar]