How Ayurvedic Treatment is Helpful to Control High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol, a fatty acid produced mostly by the liver, conducts essential work in the body such as hormone synthesis, bile acid creation, and vitamin D formation. Ayurveda recognises cholesterol as an important lubricant in the body. In our Ayurvedic treatment, the focus on cholesterol balance goes beyond mere reduction, emphasizing careful dietary control to successfully regulate cholesterol secretion. 

Ayurvedic Perspective on Cholesterol: Insights and Recommendations

In Ayurveda, cholesterol is not considered in the same way as in Western medicine. Ayurvedic principles describe cholesterol, or Medas, as a dhatu (tissue) that corresponds to adipose tissue and supports numerous circulation channels (shrotas) in the body.

These shrotas can be classified into two types: sukshma (subtle) and sthula (gross). Micro shrotas transfer nutrients and waste between cells, whereas larger shrotas (such as veins and arteries) move blood to and from the heart. Cholesterol lubricates these channels and promotes their proper function.

However, increased levels of Ama (toxins) in the fat tissue might cause channel blocks. Also, the continued presence of Ama might lead to a more dangerous variation known as Amavisha. If Amavisha fails to be eliminated from the body promptly, it may combine with body tissues (dhatu) and wastes (mala), possibly harming the shrotas and contributing to health concerns such as high cholesterol, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

To control cholesterol levels, Ayurveda emphasizes dietary changes that reduce cholesterol and optimize the body's fat metabolism, with a focus on balancing the Kapha dosha. 

To prevent and manage cholesterol, Ayurveda recommends dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and specific Ayurvedic therapies that help in reducing Kapha dosha and improving digestion. Incorporating these changes can have a positive impact on cholesterol levels.

Ayurvedic Therapies for Managing Cholesterol

Ayurvedic therapies like Panchakarma, Abhyanga (oil massage), and certain cleansing procedures can effectively manage cholesterol by purifying the body and balancing the doshas. These therapies aim for holistic well-being.

Prevention: A Holistic Approach

Preventing high cholesterol involves a holistic approach encompassing a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and Ayurvedic practices. Understanding your body and making informed choices is essential in the prevention of cholesterol-related issues.

Here are some Kapha-balancing dietary recommendations:

Astringent Foods: Consume pulses, dry beans, lentils, and mung dal.

Bitter Foods: Add spinach, kale, chard, garlic and mustard greens to your meals.

Individuals who include these dietary choices and follow Ayurvedic principles can support their body's natural processes while also maintaining ideal cholesterol levels for overall health and well-being.

Ayurvedic Remedies and Tips to Manage Cholesterol

I suggest adding home remedies and Ayurvedic practices to your daily routine can aid in maintaining good cholesterol levels. Here are some helpful suggestions and remedies:

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: To effectively manage cholesterol, use a Kapha-balanced diet. Avoid excessive calorie consumption and live a healthy, active lifestyle. Quit smoking, limit alcohol use, and engage in regular physical activity to help the body clear toxins and lower AMA levels. 

Green Tea Consumption: Green tea includes polyphenols, which are beneficial substances that help to regulate blood pressure and improve the health and flexibility of blood vessels. Drinking green tea twice a day can help lower LDL levels while increasing HDL (good cholesterol), promoting overall cardiovascular health. By using these Ayurvedic medicines and lifestyle adjustments, you can effectively reduce cholesterol levels while also improving the cleanliness, lubrication, and flexibility of your body's shrotas (channels).

Coriander Seeds: Coriander seeds are well known in Ayurveda for their detoxifying capabilities due to their high levels of folic acid, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. To maximize their effectiveness, soak one teaspoon of coriander seeds in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, filter out the seeds and sip the infused water. Regular consumption helps to cleanse the system and remove extra Ama, whole coriander's Kapha-pacifying qualities aid with cholesterol management.

Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds, also known as Methi seeds, boast a range of medicinal properties, including being rich in Vitamin E and saponins. These compounds help to lower bad cholesterol and improve blood flow. Consuming half a spoon of fenugreek seeds twice a day can successfully address a variety of cholesterol disorders by utilizing the seed's antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Amla: Amla which is one of my favorites, also known as Indian gooseberry, contains high levels of Vitamin C and polyphenols, making it beneficial for reducing excessive cholesterol. Studies, such as those published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology, show that Amla is equally effective in lowering cholesterol levels as clinically prescribed medicines. Including one to two Amla fruits in your daily routine can be an effective Ayurvedic therapy for cholesterol regulation.

Foods to Avoid with High Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels have a strong connection with food choices. Some foods can help control and lower cholesterol, while others can worsen the condition. To effectively manage your cholesterol levels, you should avoid the following:

Processed or Deli-style Meats: Ham, bacon and salami are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which contributes to high cholesterol levels.

Deep-fried Foods: Foods that are deep-fried in unhealthy oils are packed with trans fats and saturated fats, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

Processed Foods: Packaged snacks like biscuits and pastries often contain unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives that can negatively impact cholesterol levels.

Fast food and junk food: Foods like pizza, burgers and fries are heavy in harmful fats, sodium and calories, which can raise cholesterol and cause other health problems.

Fatty Meat and Chicken Skin: The fat in meat, particularly fatty cuts and chicken skin can raise cholesterol levels. Choose lean meats and cut away any visible fat before cooking.

Saturated Fats: Foods high in saturated fat, such as ghee, lard, and copha, should be avoided because they can boost LDL cholesterol levels.

Palm Oil: Palm oil is high in saturated fats and should be avoided or consumed in moderation to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

By eliminating certain items and eating healthily, you can improve your cholesterol levels and general heart health.

Conclusion

As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I believe that maintaining a sufficient amount of good cholesterol is essential for living a lively and meaningful life. This involves creating good food habits and making lifestyle decisions that enhance general well-being. In this blog, we discussed different Ayurvedic treatments and home remedies for naturally lowering cholesterol levels. However, it is important to note that before beginning any Ayurvedic treatment journey, you must speak with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. 

Through personalized consultations, I can examine your unique bodily constitution and health concerns, enabling me to create a treatment plan just for you. You can make proactive efforts towards obtaining ideal cholesterol levels and improving your overall health and vitality by adding Ayurvedic herbs and therapies into your lifestyle, guided by a skilled practitioner.

Managing cholesterol through Ayurveda is about embracing a balanced lifestyle, nourishing your body with the rightfoods, and adoptingAyurvedic therapies. At Ayur Bethaniya, we emphasise the holistic wellbeing of our clients and aim to guide them towards a healthier and happier life.