Abstract

UNDERSTANDING NAFLD THROUGH TRADITIONAL INDIAN MEDICINE: DIETARY GUIDELINES AND INSIGHTS

Dr. Sholly Elizabeth Kuruvilla, Dr. Padmaveer P.S., Dr. Rompicherla Vishnupriya, Dr. Sandeep S. Sagare*

ABSTRACT

Fatty liver disease, in simple words, is the buildup of fat in the liver. It is classified into two: Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is one of the most common health concerns today, with a prevalence of 11.2% - 37.2% worldwide. As the disease progresses, it can even lead to severe liver conditions, including cirrhosis. According to Ayurveda, Yakrit (liver) is considered as the moolasthana (origin) of the raktavaha srotas (blood-carrying channels). Yakrit originates from shonitha (blood) during Garbhavastha (embryonic period) and it is also regarded as the sthana of the pitta dosha. NAFLD can be correlated with the Ayurvedic condition of Yakritodara. According to Ayurvedic texts, Ahara (diet) is given prime importance and is considered as one of the trayopasthambha (three sub pillars of life), underscoring the critical role of diet in disease management. Understanding NAFLD through the lens of Ayurveda provides valuable insights for its prevention as well as management. Ayurvedic dietary recommendations always aims to address the nidana (root cause) of the disease and to improve overall health. This article explores the Ayurvedic perspective on NAFLD, emphasizing the importance of dietary management. It discusses specific Ayurvedic dietary practices for the prevention and management of NAFLD, highlighting the need for a holistic approach that includes lifestyle modifications alongside dietary changes.

Keywords: Yakrit, NAFLD, Yakrudodara, Ayurveda Pathyahara.