An Observational Study to Evaluate the Relationship Between Prakriti andNutritional Status in Apparently Healthy Subjects

Abstract

Background Prakriti denotes an individualrsquos natural body constitution. In our classics Agnibala Ayu comprehensive instructions on specific food and dietary schedules are explained according to onersquos Prakriti. The health of an individual is affected by the consumption and assimilation of nutrients and is called nutritional status. Currently there is a high prevalence of malnutrition. There is an urgency to establish nutrition assessment standards to evaluate the nutritional status and to provide appropriate nutrition education.Aims and Objectives This study aimed to study the relationship between Prakriti and nutritional status.Materials and Methods The research design that this study followed was Causal. The two variables studied here were Prakriti and nutritional status. Through convenience sampling a group of a homogenous population was selected and a validated tool was administered to assess Prakriti. Sixty apparently healthy subjects were selected based on Vata pradhana Pitta pradhana Kapha pradhana prakrithi 20 individuals per Prakriti and nutritional status assessments were carried out on the basis of dietary intake assessment anthropometric measurements and biochemical investigations.Results Based on appropriate statistical tests and observations all the three criteria used for assessing nourishment favoured Kapha prakriti.Conclusion Kapha prakriti individuals have a better nutritional status and they are endowed with the excellence of strength energy and longevity which is quoted as - Balavanta Vasumanta Ojaswina and Ayushmanta gunas attributed to Kapha prakriti.