Lifestyle vis-a-vis Anorectal Disorders

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Lifestyle vis-a-vis Anorectal Disorders
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Author(s):

Gopal Singh
PG Scholar, P.G. Dept. of Shalya Tantra, Rishikul Campus, Uttarakhand Ayurved University, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India.
Ajay Kumar Gupta
Professor & Head of Department, P.G. Dept. of Shalya Tantra, Rishikul Campus, Uttarakhand Ayurved University, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India.


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Lifestyle vis-a-vis Anorectal Disorders

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10iSuppl2.1200

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Ayurveda focuses on maintaining the overall health of individuals while treating various disorders. A critical aspect of this ancient health system lies in the concepts of Aahara (dietary habits) and Vihara (lifestyle), which significantly impact health and disease management. In contemporary society, the rapid shift towards economic development has led to the prevalence of irregular and unhealthy dietary practices and lifestyles. This has contributed to an increase in Gudagata Rogas (anorectal disorders), including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fistula-in-ano. This paper examines the relationship between lifestyle factors and anorectal disorders, emphasizing the need for education on proper dietary and lifestyle choices to prevent and remedy these conditions.

The Role of Diet in Health

One of the fundamental concepts discussed is the importance of Aahara in the prevention and management of anorectal disorders. Ayurveda posits that improper dietary habits lead to disturbances in digestion or Mandagni, resulting in the accumulation of waste Mala and increased Dosha imbalance. Specific dietary practices like consuming heavy, spiced, or ill-timed meals can aggravate anorectal conditions. The text outlines the Ashta Aahara Vidhi Visheshaytana, which includes considerations such as the natural properties of food, food processing methods, and the importance of food combinations. These factors promote healthy digestion and help maintain proper bodily functions. By adhering to these dietary principles, individuals can improve their health and potentially eliminate the need for medicinal interventions.

Lifestyle Factors Impacting Anorectal Disorders

Equally important to dietary choices is the concept of Vihara, encompassing daily routines and behaviors. The text emphasizes that proper sleep hygiene, physical exercise, and timely responses to bodily urges play significant roles in preventing anorectal disorders. Factors such as prolonged sitting, inadequate physical activity, and ignoring natural urges (like defecation) can exacerbate these conditions. The Ayurvedic perspective encourages adherence to daily routines (Dincharya) and seasonal adjustments (Ritucharya) to promote balanced health. By aligning lifestyle practices with Ayurvedic principles, individuals may experience improved health outcomes and reduced risk of developing anorectal disorders.

Conclusion

Both dietary habits (Aahara) and lifestyle practices (Vihara) are integral to the prevention and management of anorectal disorders in contemporary society. The findings underscore a vital message that irregular and inappropriate food and lifestyle choices lead to health issues. There is a pressing need to educate individuals about healthy dietary practices and responsible lifestyle choices based on Ayurvedic principles. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in the ancient texts, people can significantly mitigate the risks of anorectal disorders and promote overall well-being, ultimately leading to a healthier society and reduced reliance on medicinal treatment.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the impact of lifestyle on anorectal disorders?

Inappropriate dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle contribute significantly to anorectal disorders. Factors like irregular eating patterns and lack of physical activity disturb digestion, leading to conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures, and fistula.

How does Ayurveda recommend managing anorectal disorders?

Ayurveda emphasizes proper Aahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle) to prevent and manage anorectal disorders. Following a disciplined routine, including balanced diets and exercise, is essential for maintaining digestive health and avoiding these conditions.

What are the common anorectal disorders discussed in the article?

The article highlights several common anorectal disorders, including hemorrhoids (Arsha), fissures (Parikartika), and fistula (Bhagandara). These conditions are often exacerbated by poor dietary choices and lifestyle habits that disrupt digestion.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Lifestyle vis-a-vis Anorectal Disorders”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Food:
According to Ayurveda, 'Food' (Aahara) is crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases. It should be consumed based on its natural qualities, processing, and combination. Proper dietary habits prevent the vitiation of Doshas and maintain a balanced Agni, essential for digestion.

2) Disease:
'Disease' in Ayurveda is often linked to inappropriate and irregular Aahara and Vihara, leading to the vitiation of Doshas. Anorectal disorders such as Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano) are examples of diseases resulting from such habits.

3) Vihara:
'Vihara' refers to lifestyle and daily routines, which play a significant role in maintaining health. Proper Vihara, including balanced sleep cycles, daily exercise, and avoiding stress, is essential for preventing diseases and maintaining a balanced state of Doshas.

4) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' refers to the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The balance of these Doshas is crucial for health. Imbalance due to improper Aahara and Vihara can lead to various diseases, including anorectal disorders.

5) Substance:
'Substance' refers to the food items and their inherent properties. For instance, substances like Guru (heavy) or Laghu (light) have different effects on the human body and should be consumed accordingly to maintain balanced Doshas and digestive fire (Agni).

6) Agni:
'Agni' represents the digestive fire in Ayurveda that is responsible for digestion, metabolism, and overall health. A balanced Agni ensures proper digestion and absorption of food, while Mandagni (reduced Agni) leads to digestion-related diseases.

7) Mandagni (Manda-agni, Mamdagni):
'Mandagni,' meaning weak or sluggish digestive fire, is the root cause of many diseases due to improper digestion. It results from irregular Aahara and Vihara, leading to the accumulation of undigested food and the vitiation of Doshas.

8) Guda:
'Guda' refers to the rectal region in Ayurveda. Improper dietary habits and lifestyles can lead to disorders in the Guda area, such as Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano) and Arsha (haemorrhoids), caused by the vitiation of Doshas like Apana Vayu.

9) Bhagandara (Bhagamdara):
'Bhagandara,' or fistula-in-ano, is an anorectal disorder described in Ayurveda where boils in the perianal region develop into painful conditions causing internal and external openings. It results from factors like infections, straining during defecation, and improper habits.

10) Prakriti (Prakrti):
'Prakriti' means the natural properties or constitution of a food item or an individual's body. Understanding one's Prakriti helps in choosing appropriate foods and lifestyle habits to maintain health and prevent the vitiation of Doshas.

11) Arshas (Arsa, Arsha, Arsas):
'Arsha' refers to haemorrhoids, which occur when vascular cushions in the anal region get distended. It is caused by factors like prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, and irregular diets, leading to the vitiation of Apana Vayu and Mandagni.

12) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiation' refers to the imbalance or disturbance of Doshas in Ayurveda. Improper Aahara and Vihara cause vitiation of Doshas, leading to diseases like anorectal disorders by affecting the body's natural functions and digestive fire.

13) Desha (Desa):
'Desha' refers to the place or habitat where food substances grow. The quality of food can vary based on the Desha, and it is advisable to consume locally grown foods that are naturally suited to an individual's existing Dosha balance and Agni.

14) Ashta (Asta, Astan, Ashtan):
'Ashta' refers to the eight essential factors described by Acharya Charaka under Ashta Aahara Vidhi Visheshaytana, including Prakriti, Karana, Samyoga, Rashi, Desha, Kala, Upayoga Samstha, and Upayokta, which ensure a balanced diet and prevent disease.

15) Guru:
'Guru' refers to heavy food substances in Ayurveda that are hard to digest and should be consumed appropriately based on one's Agni and Prakriti. Excessive consumption without regard can lead to Mandagni and disease manifestations.

16) Parikartika:
'Parikartika,' or fissure-in-ano, is an anorectal disorder that causes severe pain and a burning sensation around the anus. It is usually caused by constipation, poor diet, and lack of Vihara, resulting in an imbalance in Doshas.

17) Nidana:
'Nidana' refers to causative factors of diseases. For anorectal disorders like Arsha and Bhagandara, common Nidanas include inappropriate Aahara and Vihara, such as excessive straining during defecation and prolonged sitting, leading to Dosha vitiation.

18) Laghu:
'Laghu' refers to light food substances in Ayurveda that are easy to digest. They are beneficial for people with Mandagni and should be consumed in appropriate quantities to keep the digestive fire balanced and prevent Dosha vitiation.

19) Vayu:
'Vayu' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, specifically responsible for movement and physiological functions. Imbalance in Vayu, particularly Apana Vayu, due to inappropriate Aahara and Vihara, can lead to anorectal disorders.

20) Apanavayu (Apana-vayu):
'Apana Vayu' is a subtype of Vata Dosha responsible for the downward movement and elimination processes. Its vitiation due to improper Aahara and Vihara can cause disorders like Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano).

21) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the ancient Indian science of life focused on maintaining health through balanced Aahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), and Nidra (sleep). It aims to prevent and treat diseases by ensuring the balance of Doshas and maintaining Agni.

22) Upayokta:
'Upayokta' refers to the consumer of food in Ayurveda. One’s dietary intake should be adjusted according to individual needs, constitution, and tastes to ensure proper nutrition, digestion, and prevention of Dosha vitiation.

23) Vyayama:
'Vyayama' refers to physical exercise in Ayurveda. Proper, regular exercise according to one's physical constitution helps balance Doshas, strengthens the body, aids digestion, and prevents diseases related to sedentary lifestyles.

24) Ushana (Usana):
'Ushana' refers to warm food or water. Consuming Ushana food aids digestion, stimulates Agni, and maintains balanced Vata and Kapha Dosha, thereby preventing conditions resulting from Mandagni and Dosha vitiation.

25) Vidhi:
'Vidhi' refers to rules or procedures in Ayurveda. Ashta Aahara Vidhi Visheshaytana encompasses the eight factors guiding the proper selection, preparation, and consumption of food to ensure balanced Doshas and prevent disease.

26) Nidra:
'Nidra' refers to sleep in Ayurveda. Proper sleep is crucial for maintaining balanced Doshas and Agni. Irregular sleep patterns, including day sleep and night awakenings, are linked to disorders like Mandagni and vitiation of Vata Dosha.

27) Basti:
'Basti' is an enema therapy in Ayurveda used for cleansing and balancing Vata Dosha. Proper application of Basti Karma is crucial for treatment, while improper application can cause complications like Parikartika (fissure-in-ano).

28) Gupta:
[see source text or glossary: Gupta]

29) Apana:
['Apana Vayu': #Apana-vayu#]

30) Kumar:
[see source text or glossary: Kumar]

31) Vata:
'Vata' is one of the three principal Doshas in Ayurveda. Maintaining Vata in balance is essential for numerous bodily functions, and its vitiation leads to the development of disorders, including those affecting the anorectal region.

32) Diet:
In Ayurveda, 'Diet' (Aahara) is fundamental. The right Aahara, considering aspects like natural properties, combination, and timing, prevents diseases. Incorrect dietary habits disrupt Doshas, causing Mandagni and disorders like Arsha and Bhagandara.

33) Rice (Rce):
In Ayurveda, 'Rice' (especially varieties like Shashtika and Shali) is recommended as part of a healthy diet. It is light and easy to digest, supporting balanced Agni and preventing the vitiation of Doshas, contributing to overall health.

34) Burning sensation:
'Burning sensation' in the context of anorectal disorders, such as Parikartika (fissure-in-ano), is a common symptom. It arises due to conditions like improper digestion (Mandagni) and the vitiation of Doshas, specifically Vata and Pitta.

35) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
'Kapha Dosha' is one of the three Doshas responsible for structure and stability in the body. Its balance ensures health, but its increase due to inappropriate Aahara, like excessive day sleep or heavy foods, causes Mandagni and disease.

36) Medicine:
In Ayurveda, 'Medicine' complements a proper diet and lifestyle (Aahara and Vihara). Vaidya Lolimba Raja emphasizes that adherence to Pathya Aahara can eliminate the need for medicine, whereas Apathya Aahara will worsen health despite medication.

37) Kathina:
'Kathina' refers to hardness. Sitting on Kathina (hard surfaces) for prolonged periods is one Nidana (causative factor) for anorectal disorders, leading to Vata vitiation and diseases like Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano).

38) Samyoga:
'Samyoga' refers to the combination of food substances. Proper Samyoga as per Ashta Aahara Vidhi Visheshaytana ensures compatibility and benefits, while ignoring it can lead to ViruddhaAahara (incompatible combinations) and subsequent Dosha vitiation.

39) Apathya:
'Apathya' refers to unwholesome dietary and lifestyle habits that aggravate Doshas and Mandagni, leading to diseases. Continuous intake of Apathya food negates the effects of medicine, stressing the importance of adhering to Pathya Aahara and Vihara.

40) Hygiene (Hygienic):
'Hygiene' is crucial to prevent infections and diseases. Poor hygiene practices are Nidana (causative factors) for anorectal disorders like Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano), where infections can lead to severe complications in the Guda (rectal) region.

41) Pathya:
'Pathya' refers to wholesome dietary and lifestyle practices in Ayurveda, which prevent and manage diseases. Adhering to Pathya Aahara and Vihara is essential for maintaining balanced Doshas and Agni, preventing diseases like Gudagata Rogas.

42) Shalya (Salya):
'Shalya' refers to surgery or a foreign body in Ayurveda. In the context of anorectal disorders, surgical interventions like those for Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano) are part of Shalya Tantra for treating severe conditions.

43) Srotas (Shrotas):
'Srotas' refers to channels in the body responsible for transporting substances like nutrients, waste, and Dosha. Proper functioning of Srotas is essential for health, and their obstruction due to improper Aahara and Vihara leads to diseases.

44) Pidaka:
'Pidaka' refers to boil in Ayurveda. When boils occur in the perianal region and progress to form fistulous tracts, they result in Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano). Proper care and hygiene can prevent Pidaka from developing into severe complications.

45) Kilata:
'Kilata' refers to cheese. In Ayurveda, Kilata is considered heavy to digest and is advised against in diet, especially in the evening, as it can cause Mandagni and contribute to the development of Gudagata Rogas (anorectal disorders).

46) Kapha:
'Kapha' is one of the three Doshas responsible for lubrication and structure in the body. Excessive Kapha due to improper Aahara and Vihara can lead to Mandagni, mucus accumulation, and diseases, including Gudagata Rogas (anorectal disorders).

47) Karma (Karman):
'Karma' refers to actions or treatments in Ayurveda. Various Karmas, like Basti Karma and Shodhak Karma, are therapeutic procedures to balance Doshas and treat diseases, emphasizing the importance of proper application to prevent complications.

48) Rashi (Rasi):
'Rashi' refers to the quantity of food consumed. Ayurveda advises that food should be eaten in appropriate Rashi to support Agni without disturbing Doshas. Overeating or under-eating disrupts digestion and contributes to disease development.

49) Masha (Masa, Ma-sha):
'Masha' refers to black gram. In Ayurveda, it is considered heavy and hard to digest (Guru), especially if consumed in excess or at inappropriate times, contributing to Mandagni and the development of anorectal disorders.

50) Anger (Angry):
'Anger' and other emotions like anxiety and grief affect digestion negatively. Ayurveda stresses that food, even when taken in the right quantity, will not digest properly if the Upayokta (consumer) is experiencing strong negative emotions.

51) Roga:
'Roga' means disease in Ayurveda. Improper Aahara and Vihara lead to the vitiation of Doshas and Mandagni, resulting in various Rogas, including Gudagata Rogas (anorectal disorders) like Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano).

52) Mala:
'Mala' refers to waste products of the body in Ayurveda. Proper elimination of Mala is essential for health, and blockages caused by poor dietary habits and Vihara lead to diseases, including anorectal disorders due to vitiated Apana Vayu.

53) Jala:
'Jala' means water in Ayurveda. Water is crucial in daily routines to aid digestion and elimination of waste. Drinking adequate Ushana Jala (warm water) in the morning helps in maintaining balanced Agni and proper bowel movements.

54) Kala:
'Kala' refers to timing, both in terms of when to eat and seasonal variations. Proper timing of meals ensures good digestion and balanced Doshas. Ignoring seasonal changes and individual needs in food consumption leads to various disorders.

55) Curd:
[see source text or glossary: Curd]

56) Milk:
'Milk' is one of the daily consumable items recommended in Ayurveda. It is nourishing and supports balanced Doshas when consumed appropriately. Including milk in a daily diet helps in maintaining health and preventing diseases.

57) Human body:
'Human body' in Ayurveda is maintained by balanced Aahara, Vihara, and Nidra. Proper dietary habits (Rashi), lifestyle practices, and sleep cycles help in keeping the Doshas balanced, ensuring good health and preventing disease.

58) Rock salt:
'Rock salt' is a recommended consumable in Ayurveda. It aids digestion when used in moderation and helps in maintaining the balance of Doshas, particularly in enhancing the digestive fire (Agni) and preventing diseases like Mandagni.

59) Upayogasamstha:
'Upayogasamstha' refers to the proper process and rules of eating. Following guidelines on food consumption, like eating warm (Ushana) and unctuous (Snigdha) food, ensures proper digestion, maintaining balanced Doshas, and preventing diseases.

60) Shalyatantra (Salyatantra, Shalya-tantra, Shalyatamtra):
'Shalya-tantra' is the branch of Ayurveda dealing with surgical procedures. It includes interventions for severe Gudagata Rogas like Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano), highlighting the importance of dietary and lifestyle modifications post-surgery.

61) Vishamashana (Visamasana, Vishamasana):
'Vishamashana' refers to irregular eating habits. Consuming food without following a fixed schedule or eating at inappropriate times disrupts Agni and Dosha balance, leading to diseases including those affecting the anorectal region.

62) Bastikarman (Bastikarma, Basti-karman, Basti-karma):
'Basti-karma' is an enema therapy used for cleansing and balancing Vata Dosha. Proper application is essential to prevent complications like Parikartika, where improper execution leads to severe anorectal disorders.

63) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
'Abhishyandi' refers to substances that cause obstruction in bodily channels (Srotas). Consuming such foods leads to Dosha vitiation and eventually diseases like Mandagni and Gudagata Rogas by hindering the proper digestion and elimination.

64) Adhyashana (Adhyasana):
'Adhyashana' refers to eating before the previous meal has been digested. This habit leads to improper digestion, Mandagni, and vitiation of all Doshas, contributing to various diseases including those affecting the anorectal region.

65) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
'Vata Dosha' governs movement and various physiological functions in the body. Its imbalance, often due to improper Aahara and Vihara, can lead to disorders, particularly in the anorectal region such as Arsha and Bhagandara.

66) Green gram:
'Green gram' (Mudga) is recommended for daily consumption in Ayurveda. It is light (Laghu) and easy to digest, supporting the maintenance of balanced Doshas and preventing digestive issues like Mandagni, which can lead to diseases.

67) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the context of the article emphasizes the significance of adhering to proper Aahara and Vihara. Following regimens described by Acharyas helps in maintaining good health, preventing Mandagni, and avoiding diseases.

68) Shashtika (Sastika):
'Shashtika' refers to a variety of rice recommended in Ayurveda for its ease of digestion. It supports balanced Agni and prevents the vitiation of Doshas, making it beneficial for maintaining good health and preventing diseases.

69) Pravahana:
'Pravahaṇa' refers to straining during defecation. Inappropriate straining is a Nidana (causative factor) for Gudagata Rogas like Arsha (haemorrhoids) and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano), highlighting the importance of avoiding such habits.

70) Shodhana (Sodhana):
'Shodhana' refers to purification processes in Ayurveda aimed at eliminating toxins and balancing Doshas. Regular Shodhana, including Basti karma, is essential for preventing diseases like Gudagata Rogas and maintaining overall health.

71) Vidradhi:
'Vidradhi' refers to perianal abscess in Ayurveda, a painful condition often linked to improper hygiene and dietary habits. Vidradhi is a severe issue requiring proper treatment to prevent it from progressing into fistulas or other complications.

72) Elephant:
[see source text or glossary: Elephant]

73) Madhura:
'Madhura' refers to sweet taste in Ayurveda. Foods with Madhura properties are usually heavier (Guru) and should be consumed in moderation as excessive intake can lead to Mandagni and vitiation of Kapha Dosha, contributing to diseases.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 125]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Lifestyle vis-a-vis Anorectal Disorders’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Nidana, Vyayama, Bhagandara, Adhyashana, Parikartika, Mandagni, Brahmacharya, Arshas, Ritucharya, Dincharya, Sedentary lifestyle, Pathya Aahara, Apathya Aahara, Viruddha Aahara, Aahara Vihara, Vishamaashana, Ushana Jala, Acharya Charka, Guda Kandu, Gudagata Rogas, Ashta Aahara Vidhi Visheshaytana.

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