What is Emaciation?

Emaciation refers to an abnormal and excessive loss of weight and muscle, often indicating underlying nutritional deficiencies or chronic health issues. In Ayurveda, emaciation is seen as a result of imbalances in the body’s digestive and metabolic systems, particularly linked to poor nourishment and improper lifestyle.

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Causes of Emaciation in Children

1. Genetic Weakness: Children born from weak or unhealthy sperm or ovum may naturally be underweight or frail.
2. Lack of Breastfeeding: Insufficient mother’s milk during infancy often leads to poor development and thinness.
3. Poor Diet Due to Poverty: Children who are fed rice, lentils, or barley from an early age instead of milk and fruits may suffer from weak digestion and emaciation.
4. Improper Feeding Practices: Feeding young children ghee, butter, fish, meat, and eggs, or spicy foods instead of suitable, gentle foods like milk and fruits can overwhelm their digestive systems, leading to malnourishment.

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Causes of Emaciation in Adults

1. Excessive mental strain
2. Weak reproductive health
3. Chronic constipation
4. Acidity and poor digestion
5. Long-standing illnesses that deplete bodily fluids
6. Hormonal or reproductive disorders

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Ayurvedic Treatment for Emaciation

Yoga and Mudras for Children (Morning Routine):

• Karmásana
• Bhújaungásana (Cobra Pose)
• Shalabhásana (Locust Pose)
• Garudásana (Eagle Pose)
• Ágneyii Mudrá

Evening Routine:

• Dvisamakonásana
• Cakrásana (Wheel Pose)
• Granthimuktásana

These postures help improve digestion, circulation, and overall vitality.

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Natural Remedies & Daily Practices

• Sunbathing: A daily morning sunbath boosts immunity and promotes weight gain.
• Open-Air Activity: Spending time in natural environments helps physical and mental health.
• Sports for Children: Physical play improves appetite and muscle development.
• Hydration: Drink 4–5 seers (approx. 4–5 liters) of water daily, in small amounts at a time.
• Sikta Mardana (Moist Massage): Especially after bathing, this promotes better circulation and tissue growth.

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Dietary Guidelines for Emaciation

Children (Under 5 Years):

• Focus on milk, fruits, roots, and alkaline foods.
• Avoid starch-heavy, carbohydrate-rich, and fatty foods which can strain the liver.
• Strictly no non-vegetarian food for children under five.

Older Children and Adults:

• Gradually introduce starches and healthy fats, depending on liver health.
• Maintain a vegetarian, nutrient-dense diet rich in seasonal fruits, vegetables, and root-based foods.
• Adults should focus on balanced nutrition, physical activity, and mental relaxation to regain weight naturally.

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Dos and Don’ts

Do:

• Ensure a fruit- and root-based diet for children.
• Practice daily yoga and sun exposure.
• Drink enough water throughout the day.
• Encourage natural play and outdoor activity for kids.

Don’t:

• Feed young children non-vegetarian, spicy, or oily foods.
• Allow children to develop poor eating habits due to parental negligence.
• Skip regular physical activity or fresh air.

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Conclusion

Emaciation, whether in children or adults, is often a sign of deep-rooted nutritional and lifestyle imbalance. Ayurvedic wisdom suggests that with proper diet, yoga, and healthy daily routines, the body can naturally restore its vitality and strength.

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Trusted External Resources

For more information on Ayurveda, yoga, and natural wellness, explore these authoritative resources:

• Ministry of AYUSH – Government of India
• United Nations – International Day of Yoga
• World Health Organization – Traditional & Integrative Medicine
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH, USA)
• The Ayurvedic Institute