The Gut-Centric View of Obesity: Connecting Ayurvedic Principles With Modern Dysbiosis

Obesity is a rapidly growing global health challenge associated with significant metabolic complications. Recent advances in microbiome research have identified gut dysbiosis and impaired intestinal barrier function as important contributors to the development of obesity and related metabolic disorders. Ayurveda describes obesity as Sthoulya, a disorder that develops due to the excessive consumption of Santarpana Ahara and Vihara, resulting in derangement in the metabolism of Kapha and Meda. Although Ayurveda and modern medicine differ in their conceptual frameworks, both recognize the central role of impaired digestion, metabolism, and lifestyle in the pathogenesis of obesity. This shared understanding provides an opportunity to explore obesity from a more integrative perspective, where traditional concepts and modern scientific findings can be viewed together to improve our understanding of disease mechanisms. This review aims to explore the possible relationship between the Ayurvedic concept of Sthoulya and the emerging role of the gut microbiome. It discusses how classical Ayurvedic principles, including vitiation of Kapha, Meda Dushti, and altered digestive function, may be viewed alongside current evidence on gut microbial imbalance, increased intestinal permeability, chronic low-grade inflammation, excessive accumulation of fat leading to the development of obesity. Rather than establishing a direct equivalence, the review highlights the conceptual similarities between these two perspectives and emphasizes their potential to complement each other. By bringing together these traditional and modern viewpoints, the review seeks to encourage a broader understanding of obesity and support future integrative research that may contribute to more comprehensive prevention and management strategies.