Pathya Ahara Research Articles

Effect of Phalatrikadi ghana vati in a patient of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a case report

Abstract A 39-year-old male patient presented with complaints of decreased appetite, generalized weakness, nausea, gastric distension of the abdomen on and off, and mild pain in the upper abdomen. Ultrasonography of the whole abdomen revealed hepatomegaly with grade II diffuse fatty infiltration of the liver or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Such disorders of the hepatobiliary system are categorized as Yakritroga in Ayurveda. A drug, Phalatrikadi ghana vati, which is a combination of eight herbs known to pacify and normalize the functions of the three doshas, was prescribed to the patient for 12 weeks along with lifestyle modifications (pathya ahara–vihara). The individual contents of this drug are known to possess hepatoprotective activity. The patient showed significant relief in subjective parameters Udarasula (pain in the abdomen), Utklesa (feeling of nausea and vomiting), Aruchi (loss of appetite), and Klama (fatigue). The elevated liver enzymes were also reported to be in the normal range after the treatment, along with improved fatty liver grading. This single case report of NAFLD was managed satisfactorily with significant improvement with no side effects.

MANAGEMENT OF APPENDICITIS THROUGH AYURVEDIC MEDICINES: A CASE REPORT

Appendicitis is inflammation of the vermiform appendix. It has an approximate incidence of 233 per 100,000 people. This is a case of a 7-year-old boy diagnosed with appendicitis and suggested appendicectomy by the modern fraternity. His parents were reluctant to do surgery and took him to our Outpatient Department (OPD). The appendix was distended with a diameter of 7.3 mm in the Ultra Sono Graphy (USG) report. After detailed evaluation and dosha dushya assessment, the treatment adopted was that of Pitta Kapha Gulma and Antar vidradhi and given OP-level treatment. Pathya ahara (appropriate diet regimen) was strictly advised along with medicines. After one month of treatment, the size of the appendix was reduced to 5.3 mm. The medicines were discontinued and Charngeryadi ghrita was given for 2 months. The patient was completely recovered, and no recurrence has been observed.

Ayurvedic management of Prameha - A Single Case Study

Diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 is one of the global problems of the present day and it is gaining more attention. It is expected to continue as a major health problem and leads to serious complications. India is one of the top 5 countries with the highest prevalence of DM. The IDF Diabetes Atlas (2021) reports that 10.5% of the adult population (20-79 years) has diabetes, with almost half unaware that they are living with the condition. By 2045, IDF projections show that 1 in 8 adults, approximately 783 million, will be living with diabetes, an increase of 46%.[1] The signs and symptoms of diabetes can be correlated to Prameha of Ayurveda. The management of Prameha is mentioned in Ayurveda as preventive and curative aspects. Ayurveda has recommended an appropriate use of Oushadha Yogas along with proper Pathya (wholesome) Ahara, and Viharas. On the same principles a patient was treated at OPD basis, this case report analyses the same. A male patient, aged 45 years, diagnosed case of Prameha 5 years back presented with dryness in the mouth, increased frequency of micturition, Excessive thirst, weakness of the body, and burning sensation at the sole. The treatment planned was use of Shamana Oushadhis along with proper Pathya (wholesome) Ahara, and Vihara for three months. After three months of treatments results were compared. There was a marked reduction in signs and symptoms like burning sensation, numbness, excessive thirst, and increased micturition.

Role of Prakruti (Constitution)-wise Pathya (Wholesome) in Disease Prevention for Children: A Narrative Review

Ayurveda, the Science of Life, not only utilises medications to cure diseases but also employs Anupana, Ahara (diet), and other techniques to preserve a person’s health and manage diseases. Ayurveda places strong emphasis on fundamental dietary principles such as suitable food, combinations of food, cooking techniques, storage, dining environment, hygiene, and manners. Pathya Ahara (Wholesome diet) Kalpana (Ayurvedic Dietetics) is a unique concept. Pathya (Wholesome) refers to that which provides relief to individuals through the use of diet and regimen. The primary goal of discussing Pathya (Wholesome) Ahara Kalpana (Ayurvedic Dietetics) is to highlight the importance of providing proper nutrition based on one’s constitution in preserving physical health and in balancing Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, and Agni to aid in curing various ailments. The term “Pathya” (Wholesome) refers to the diet and lifestyle that are compatible with a person’s channels, constitution, and strength, respectively. The key idea behind Pathya (Wholesome) Ahara (diet) serves as the foundation for both the preventive and therapeutic components of Ayurveda. According to Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visesha Ayatana (Rules regarding Diet), there are various methods for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of paediatric disorders as described in Ayurveda. Therefore, utilising preventive measures can help in maintaining a disciplined lifestyle and promoting a healthy existence.

Importance of Samsarjana Krama: Review Article

Panchakarma represents five therapeutic procedures of Shodhana. Panchakarma is always performed in three phases Purva Karma, Pradhana Karma and Paschata Karma. After Shodhana Karma, Agni gets disturbed and patient is likely to be weakened. To correct this Agni Sansarjana Krama is to be followed. The sequential order of administration of Pathya Ahara is followed in Peyadi Sansarjana Krama, Tarpanadi Krama, Rasadi Samsarjana Krama as per classics. It used to increase the Agni and to provide sequential nourishment to the patient (from light diet to normal diet). The importance of Sansarjana Karma is to increase the strength of weakened Agni and body after Shodhana Karma.

Ayurvedic Intervention in the Management of Premature Menopause

ABSTRACT Menstruation is a cyclic physiological process of uterine bleeding due to the shedding of the endometrium. A normal menstrual cycle plays an essential role in maintaining the woman’s health status during reproductive age. Premature menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation at or below the age of 40. Premature ovarian failure (POF) is defined as when an ovarian failure occurs before the age of 40. The prevalence of premature ovarian insufficiency is estimated at 1% in the general population. The present case report documents the efficacy of Ayurvedic medication in a female aged 24 years who had commencement of menstruation after 4 years of amenorrhea postovarian cystectomy. The left ovary of the patient was removed during the surgery, and a small hypoplastic right ovary and uterus were visible in the ultrasonography. The levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol hormone in the patient were equivalent to postmenopausal individuals. She was also suspected of POF. The Ayurvedic management included Shamana Aushadh, Yoga, and Pathya Ahara Vihara for 3 months. The menstruation was visible after 1 month of Ayurvedic medication. The follow-up was done for 3 months. A marked improvement was also noted in the general health of the patient along with regularity in the menstrual cycle each month.

Concept of Marma Chikitsa in Diabetic Retinopathy

Nowadays, diabetic retinopathy is one of the main reasons people go blind in the world. Thus, encouraging researchers to look for strategies to stop its progression and provide effective treatment. Laser, photocoagulation, vitrectomy, etc. are used in treatment. They are beneficial for a brief period of time, but on the flip side, they have significant reoccurrence rates and cause discomfort to the person. Ayurveda's undiscovered riches can be discovered here to benefit humanity. One such undiscovered resource is Marma Chikitsa. Pressing Marma points releases energy blockages, eliminates excess Ama, facilitates easy energy flow, nourishes tissues, and produces endorphins and cortisol-like hormones, which in turn cause a calm shut-off FFF response and enhance blood circulation. All of these activities lead to improved performance in that specific area. With Pathya Ahara, a healthy diet, exercise, and the right medication, some Marma points, including Apanga, Avarta, Sthapni, Vidhura, Kurcha, Kurchshira, Indravasti, and Nabhi, that are associated with the eyes and others that promote better metabolism, can be very effective in slowing the progression of retinopathy. Marma Chikitsa may be a reliable, practical, and affordable adjuvant treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

An exploratory analysis of probable role of Pathya and Apathya in skin disease

Every living and non-living being in this universe is composed of five basic elements, the Pancha Mahabhuta. The Panch
 Every living and non-living being in this universe is composed of five basic elements, the Pancha Mahabhuta. The Pancha Mahabhuta components of the ingested food nourishes their respective tissue elements in the body. Ahara is the best of all medicines and is considered one among the Trayopsthamba. The main idea of Pathya Ahara and Vihara serves as the foundation for both the preventive and therapeutic components of Ayurveda. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on fundamental dietary principles, or Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatana. Skin is given due importance since time immemorial owning to the aesthetic value conferred upon it. Skin diseases are mainly described under the spectrum of Kushtha. Dietary modifications have hitherto received little attention in dermatological therapy. However, recent studies have discovered a strong link between various dermatological conditions and food. Ayurveda describes a wide range of etiological factors for dermatological disorders. Consumption of Ahara such as Ati-Lavana, Ati-Amla, Viruddhahara, Guru-Snigdha Annapana, Ajeernahara plays a significant role in the development of skin disease. Excessive intake of food items like Dadhi, fish with milk, Masha, Mulaka, Tila, Madya further contribute to Kushtha. In this article an attempt is made to highlight the probable role of Apathya and emphasize the scope of Pathya Ahara in the management of skin disease.
 a Mahabhuta components of the ingested food nourishes their respective tissue elements in the body. Ahara is the best of all medicines and is considered one among the Trayopsthamba. The main idea of Pathya Ahara and Vihara serves as the foundation for both the preventive and therapeutic components of Ayurveda. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on fundamental dietary principles, or Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatana. Skin is given due importance since time immemorial owning to the aesthetic value conferred upon it. Skin diseases are mainly described under the spectrum of Kushtha. Dietary modifications have hitherto received little attention in dermatological therapy. However, recent studies have discovered a strong link between various dermatological conditions and food. Ayurveda describes a wide range of etiological factors for dermatological disorders. Consumption of Ahara such as Ati-Lavana, Ati-Amla, Viruddhahara, Guru-Snigdha Annapana, Ajeernahara plays a significant role in the development of skin disease. Excessive intake of food items like Dadhi, fish with milk, Masha, Mulaka, Tila, Madya further contribute to Kushtha. In this article an attempt is made to highlight the probable role of Apathya and emphasize the scope of Pathya Ahara in the management of skin disease.

A Case Study on OPD Level Management of Infertility due to PCOS with Ayurvedic Medicines

PCOS is the primary cause of Hyperandrogenism and oligo-ovulation at the reproductive age and is often associated with infertility. The prevalence of infertility in women with PCOS varies between 70 and 80 %. In Ayurveda, Vandhyatva is considered as one among the Rasa pradoshaja vikaras. This is case report of an infertile couple who had not been able to conceive since 4 yrs. The wife was diagnosed with PCOS. Based on the parameters of Ayurvedic science this case was diagnosed as Vandhyatva (infertility) due to Nashtarthava (PCOS). The treatment plan for PCOS is to correct the menstrual irregularity and ensure proper ovulation, this itself helps to develop healthy progeny and successful childbirth. The treatment principles selected here were mild Shodhana and Samana therapy especially Vatakaphahara, Agni deepana along with Pathya ahara. After two and half month of internal medications, reduction in abnormal hair growth, blackish discolouration and weight were noticed. The outcome of the treatment resulted in natural conception and delivered a full term male baby. So this case signifies effect of Ayurvedic science in the management of infertility.

A randomised clinical trial to evaluate the effect of Vyoshadi Saktu In Sthaulya w.s.r to Obesity

Sthaulya {Obesity}is one among the major disease of modern era, In today’s society majority of people are having sedentary life style, hectic schedule, which leads to various metabolic disorders and obesity. The most important cause of obesity is an energy imbalance between the calories expended which leads to the accumulation of fat. About 13% 0f the worlds adult population (11% men and 15% women in 2016. Obesity may be defined as an abnormal growth of adipose tissue resulting in more than 20% excess of expected body weight. Obesity is often expressed in terms of body mass index (BMI). Atisthaulya is considered as one of the Ashtanindit purush as described by Acharya Charaka.. Keeping in view, this burning problem of present era and its associated devastating diseases, it has been decided to do research on sthaulya with certain Ayurvedic classical remedies hence keeping is these points in mind this topic is selected for study. Here the humble attempt had been made to provide better management of sthaulya by administering Pathya Ahara.

Ayurvedic Management of Emesis Gravidarum - A Case Report

Emesis is a common experience in first trimester of pregnancy affecting 70 to 80% of all pregnant women. Altered immunological endocrinological and psychological states are responsible for initiation of symptoms. Mild to moderate emesis gravidarum have a significant adverse effect on quality of women's life. Even though onset is physiological its morbidity has to be reduced to minimize disease burden, enhance maternal health and to prevent hyper emesis gravidarum. Anti-emetic and anti-histamines are used in conventional Allopathic practice. Ayurvedic principle is early intervention and prevention of hyperemesis gravidarum with lifestyle modifications and adopting Pathya ahara. This is a case report of emesis gravidarum managed with pharmaco nutrient product –Malarinji modaka

RELEVANCE OF LIFESTYLE DISEASES AND ITS TREATMENT IN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE: A REVIEW

Lifestyle is how a person lives. It is an interest, opinion, behavior and behavioral orientation of an individual, group or culture. Lifestyle diseases are defined as diseases linked with the way people live their life. This is commonly caused by lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating, stress, Alcohol, drugs and smoking. The incidence of lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and obesity-associated with cardiovascular diseases are high on the rise. In Ayurveda, lifestyle disorders have been explained in different contexts. Santarpanajanya vikaras and diseases caused due to Gramya Ahara-Viharas, which are said in Charaka Samhita and Rasanimittameva Sthoulya concept in Sushruta Samhita are mainly considered under lifestyle diseases. In India, rapid urbanization and globalization largely contribute towards an increased number of people suffering from lifestyle disorders. The urban people have a less physically active lifestyle more exposure to products and technologies that could be unhealthy. As Ayurveda is a life science and describes the prevention and management of lifestyle disorders, the world is attracted to its potential. Ayurveda provides a better solution for lifestyle disorders in the form of Pathya Ahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle), Panchakarma treatment like shodhana (Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Raktamokshana and Nasya), Shamana chikitsa and Rasayana chikitsa. The main aim of Ayurveda is to provide an individual's physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

Traditional Food for Dermal Health- A Review

Ayurveda, Indian system of medicine aims to revitalize and preserve the health of the healthy and alleviate the disease of the sick. Proper lifestyle and diet play a major role in the prevention and curative aspect of ailments. Diet in its simplest form can be described as the food consumed. A diet can be compatible or incompatible to the human body depending on the various factors such as time, weather, topography, domicile, digestive power of an individual. In ayurveda this compatible diet is termed as pathya ahara and incompatible diet is termed as apathya ahara. In the present scenario, current life style and food habits such as incompatible diet and irregular timings contribute to various ailments. Skin is the most exposed organ and thereby more prone to pathological changes. Present research works and published papers are observed to be focused on diseases and medications and their curative effects. There is lackadaisical approach on the part to control and alleviate diseased conditions through a strict pathya apathya (wholesome and unwholesome) rather than outright administration of medicine. The present review highlights the same. In Ayurveda, skin disease occurs mostly due to the kapha pitta (humors) and rasa- rakta dushti (vitiated rasa, rakta body constituents). This review enlists certain diets that cause rakta prasadana (nourishing rakta) and pacify kapha pitta dosha. Unlike other diseases, skin disease is anushangi (long term) and recidivistic in nature. Treatment along with life style modifications with pathya and apathya can only completely target the skin disease. Therefore, present review aims to focus on the importance of diet in dermal health. In this study, Ayurveda classics were reviewed in terms of various aspects of pathya and apathya in major skin diseases like kushta, visarpa shwitra etc. The electronic databases Google Scholar and PubMed were searched for relevant contemporary literature. In this article mostly mentioned food articles are richest source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is the most important vitamin for upkeep of a healthy skin, as it helps to prevent skin pigmentation and damage caused by UV light exposure, it also helps to reduce visible signs of aging such as wrinkling of skin. Also most compatible food mentioned in the article are sheeta veerya(cold in potency), which reduces deranged pitta and having madhura rasa (sweet )which can pacify pitta dosha. Some specific types of viruddha (incompatible) mentioned here plays an key role in imparting tissue level damage. Thus, this review covers various aspects of dermal health in terms of diet. In fact there are effective dietary modifications in Ayurveda through which fast recovery and prevention can be ensured in the spectrum of skin manifestations.

Role of Pathya and Sansodhanana Chikitsa in Management of Endocrine Disorder Related Menometrorrhagia

Menstrual disorders pose a huge burden on gynecology OPD in the current scenario, accounting for approximately 20% of total patients. Menometrorrhagia is one of them which is a very common complaint. In normal reproductive physiology an important role plays by Endocrine hormones. In India, the most common endocrine disorders that affect the menstrual cycle, along with other systemic symptoms are thyroid disorder or deranged prolactin hormones thus it becomes the need of the hour to find out natural solutions which can cure these disorders. Though, Ayurveda doesn’t rely on intervention to replace or correct the hormones by any outside or foreign substance in the body rather than it strengthening the body’s own self-healing and balancing mechanism. A 25-year-old unmarried female patient had a complaint of menometrorrhagia associated with hypothyroidism and hyperprolactinemia with a history of habituation of junk food intake from 3 to 4 years. She was reluctant to take allopathic medicine for the same and insisted to treat her hormonal derangement with Ayurvedic Chikitsa. We focused to improve her lifestyle by advising her Pathya therapy along with Yoga and planned Samshodhan Chikitsa for her. After Samshodhan, we again advised her Thyroid profile and Serum Prolactin which comes towards normal. After that Shamana yoga was advised along with Pathya Ahara and vihara and found a drastic improvement in her hormonal study. The present paper is all about the role of a holistic approach followed by us with documentary evidence to corroborate the clinical improvement in this patient.

DIETETICS MANAGEMENT IN UDAVARTINI YONIVYAPAD (DYSMENORRHEA): A REVIEW

Dysmenorrhea is a medical condition characterized by severe uterine pain during menstruation. It is one of the most common gynaecological complaints observed. It has a high impact on women’s quality of life resulting in a restriction of daily activities, a lower academic performance, and poor quality of sleep and has negative effects on mood, causing anxiety and depression. Dysmenorrhea is explained as an Udavartini Yonivyapad in Ayurveda. The main clinical feature of Udavartini is rajahkricchrata i.e., painful menstruation. Today’s stressful modern lifestyle and faulty food habits i.e., increased consumption of oily and junk food is leading to a higher incidence of dysmenorrhea. In modern medicine, dysmenorrhea is treated by oral hormonal pills, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and analgesics. Long term use of these produces side effects. Thus, these are not the solution to the problem. The role of diet has been well considered as an etiological factor responsible for causing dysmenorrhea. Ayurveda has given importance to diet and regimen as a part of Chikitsa. Thus, taking an appropriate diet (Pathya Ahara) and avoiding a faulty diet (Apathya Ahara) will help in prevention as well as reducing the symptoms of dysmenorrhea.

PATHYAPATHYA IN PRAMEHA

Diabetes mellitus is becoming the fastest considerable disease in the world. India has been estimated with the fast- est-growing population of Diabetics. According to International Diabetic Federation (IDF), the total number of Diabetic subjects will be around 151 million in India by 2045. The clinical entity of Prameha can be correlated with Diabetes Mellitus. It is considered a Lifestyle disorder, the food, drinks and sedentary habits are having a great influence on this disorder. In Ayurveda classics elaborately mentioned the Nidana (causative factors) and Pathya ahara (wholesome food & drinks) and Apathya ahara (unwholesome food & drinks), Pathya Vihara (Conducive lifestyle) and Apathya Vihara (Non-Conducive lifestyle) of Prameha. The classification of Prameha as per Susruta Samhita as Apathya nimittaja Prameha and Beeja doshaja Prameha indicates the importance of Ahara and Vihara in prevention as well as management of this disease. In this article, a sincere attempt has been made to incorporate the principles of Ayurveda and Modern medical science with a scientific explanation regarding Pathya (Diet) and Vihara (lifestyle) in Prameha (Diabetes Mellitus). Keywords: Pathya, Apathya, Prameha, Ahara, Vihara.

A randomized controlled trial to assess the effect of Pathya Ahara in Grahani

Introduction: The disorders of digestion and absorption are broadly covered under the heading of “Grahani roga” in Ayurvedic classics. Grahani is the seat of agni. It retains the food till the food is fully digested and passed to Pakvashaya. Mandagni (weak digestive fire) causes improper digestion of food and leads to Grahani roga. In Grahani roga, mala is released in undigested form. The role of diet and Deepana-Pachana is very important, while treating the patient of the Grahani. Pathya Ahara, Bilva, and Panchakola Churna help to cure Grahani Dosha with considerable health benefits. Objectives: This study was conducted with the objectives to prepare a dietary module for the patients of Grahani and to study the clinical effect of the prescribed diet (Pathya Ahara) in Grahani. Material and Methods: A total of 60 patients of Grahani Dosha of either sex were registered. These patients were divided into two groups by random sampling method in Groups A and B. In Group A, patients were given Bilva and Panchakola Churna without any dietary modification, and patients of Group B were given a diet module to modify their diet along with Bilva and Panchakola Churna. All the patients were evaluated for subjective parameters. Results: Statistical analysis was done after the intervention of therapies for 6 weeks. Group B showed statistically significant results in all signs and symptoms as compared to Group A. Conclusion: Pathya Ahara improves the efficacy of the medicine in Grahani roga without the presence of any adverse effects.

EFFECT OF NISTHUSHAYADIKWATHA AND PHALATRIKADI KWATHA IN AMLAPITHA– A RANDOMISED COMPARATIVE CLINICAL STUDY

Amlapitta may be a clinical entity manifesting within the Annavaha Srotas. Kashyapa and Madhava have described this disease thoroughly. Amlapitta has become quite common because of the change within the food and life styles, sophistication and a stressful life. It is characterized by Avipaka, Klama, Tiktodhgara, Amlodhgara, Gaurava, Hritkanthadaha and Aruchi indicating the Vikruthi of Pachakapitta, Kledakakapha and Samanavata. The etiological factors and therefore the symptomatology manifested relate Amlapitta to diseases mentioned under Acid Peptic Disorders. Nistushayadi Kwatha and Phalatrikadi kwatha were selected. The main objectives of the study are to study and compare the effect of Nistushayadi Kwatha and effect of Phalatrikadi kwatha in the management of Amlapitta.
 A total of 40 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected, and randomly assigned into two groups i.e., Group A and Group B, comprising of 20 patients each. Group A and Group B were administered Nistushayadi kwatha and Phalatrikadi Kwatha respectively for 30 days. Both the groups were advised Pathya Ahara. They were followed up after every 10th days. After the intervention the Samanya Lakshana of Amlapitta were observed, recorded and assessed. The overall assessment of both the groups, where group A receives Nistushyadi kwatha and group B Phalatrikadi kwatha shows promising improvement in the subjective parameters. Assessment was done using unpaired ‘t’ test between these two groups, the result was not quite statistically significant which means there is no much difference in the efficacy of these two formulation in the management of Amlapitta. Both the formulations shown nearly same outcome in the improvement of disease parameter. The reduction in the symptoms were started to be noticed by 7th day where the patients had reduction in Hrutkantha Daha, Aruchi, Kanthadaha and Angagourav. These symptoms resolved by 30th day.

Effect of Garbhini Ahara-Vihara (Diet & lifestyle in pregnancy) on Garbhastha Sishu (Fetus) and offspring

Ayurveda not only focus on preventive and promotional health but also has strong footing in the field of healthy progeny. Garbhini paricharya is essential for safe motherhood and healthy progeny. Garbhini Paricharya refers to antenatal care or prenatal which recommends Ahara (specific dietary regimen) and Vihara (activity for physical, mental and emotional well being). In Ayurveda, Garbhini paricharya is divided in three categories such as Masanumasik Pathya ahara and Vihara (monthly dietary regimen and lifestyle), Garbhasthapak karma (diet and activities for maintenance of pregnancy and better progeny) and avoidance of Garbhopaghatakar Bhavas (diet and activities which are harmful to fetus). Out of many factors which are responsible for overall development of fetus, Garbhini ahara-vihara plays very important role. We always say “you are what you eat” it may also be true that “you are what your mother ate”. Modern medical science also believes that fetal growth is dependent on appropriate diet and life style of pregnant mother. Abnormal diet and life style produce adverse effect on fetus. Organogenesis is that period when important organ of fetus are developing. It is 6-10 wks of intrauterine life. During this period fetus is most at risk from birth defects caused by external factors. Many diseases and fetal development disorders are consider as being related to prenatal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC).

Effect of Garbhini Ahara-Vihara (Diet & Lifestyle in Pregnancy) On Garbhastha Sishu (Fetus) and Offspring

Ayurveda not only focus on preventive and promotional health but also has strong footing in the field of healthy progeny. Garbhini Paricharya refers to antenatal care or prenatal which recommends Ahara (specific dietary regimen) and Vihara (activity for physical, mental and emotional well being). In Ayurveda, Garbhini paricharya is divided in three categories such as Masanumasik Pathya ahara and Vihara (monthly dietary regimen and lifestyle), Garbhasthapak karma (diet and activities for maintenance of pregnancy and better progeny) and avoidance of Garbhopaghatakar Bhavas (diet and activities which are harmful to fetus). We always say “you are what you eat” it may also be true that “you are what your mother ate”. Modern medical science also believes that fetal growth is dependent on appropriate diet and life style of pregnant mother. Organogenesis is that period when important organ of fetus are developing. It is 6-10 wks of intrauterine life. During this period fetus is most at risk from birth defects caused by external factors. Many diseases and fetal development disorders are consider as being related to prenatal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC). The physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being during pregnancy and practice of a wholesome regimen, play a prime role in achieving a healthy progeny. In the present review article prime focus is given on effect of diet and life style of pregnant woman on fetus described in Ayurveda and modern medical science.