The Impact of Ayurvedic Ama on Gut Health and Gut-Related Diseases
Ama is one of the fundamental concepts of Ayurveda, alongside others like the Tri Doshas. Although it is not an exact definition, Ama can be loosely equated with the concept of toxins. It is a complex topic with nuances specific to an individual’s internal constitution and various external factors, which can only be fully comprehended when analysed on a personal level. In Ayurveda, Ama plays a significant role in the understanding and treatment of various diseases and health conditions.
What Is Ama?
Ama is essentially the accumulation of improperly digested or metabolised substances in the body. This accumulation arises when there is weak gut activity or Agni, leading to inefficient digestion and absorption of food. Over time, these undigested residues can disrupt the balance of the overall system and lead to disorders and diseases. This is a very crude definition of Ama.
The manifestation of Ama can be observed in various ways, including inflammatory conditions, elevated cholesterol levels, and fluctuations in blood sugar. Diseases such as auto-immune disorders, IBS, IBD, and even certain oncological conditions can be correlated with Amatvam – the presence of Ama in the body.
Ama and Idiopathic Diseases
Idiopathic diseases are those whose causes remain unknown. Ayurveda often attributes many of these conditions to the presence of Ama in the body, suggesting that Ama can be the root cause of such ailments. It serves as Ayurveda's explanation for many gut-related diseases classified as idiopathic.
Today, numerous cases involve young patients with elevated triglycerides and cholesterol levels, along with fatty liver conditions, sometimes even reaching Grade 3 severity. This trend is particularly prevalent among individuals within the age groups 20s and 30s. Ayurveda explains this phenomenon through the concept of Ama.
When individuals with weak gut activity consume heavy foods, proper digestion and absorption do not occur. Falling sick and experiencing poor health even when maintaining a healthy diet can indicate a lack of Agni-balam (digestive strength) or Deha-balam (physical strength) and the presence of Amatvam. This accumulation, resulting from weak metabolism, can manifest as elevated triglycerides, LDL, and other issues.
This scenario with cholesterol and fatty liver is just one example. Similar accumulations can occur with carbohydrates, leading to spikes in blood sugar, or with proteins, potentially resulting in high creatinine levels.
Ama and Epigenetics
The concept of Ama in Ayurveda shares foundational similarities with the field of Epigenetics, which explores how diet and environment influence individuals based on their body constitution.
Similarly, Amatvam is influenced by more than just dietary choices. It is also affected by individual body constitution, including factors like digestion, absorption, and excretion. For instance, a seemingly healthy individual consuming heavy foods over an extended period may develop Amatvam in their body, which may not be immediately evident. However, after a few years, this accumulation can manifest as conditions like IBS, fatty liver, or diabetes.
In essence, individuals with improper digestion, absorption, and excretion may develop acute or chronic Amatvam. The manifestations of Amatvam can vary greatly depending on factors such as body type, diet, and environmental influences.
How To Treat Amatvam?
Ayurveda teaches that individuals with strong digestive fire (Agni-Balam) are less likely to develop Amatvam. Therefore, Ayurvedic treatment for this focuses on improving digestion, absorption, and excretion, thereby improving metabolism. In fact, the treatment protocols for almost all disease conditions start with identifying the type of Ama and pacifying it. This is achieved through the use of specific Ayurvedic medicines classified as Deepana Paachana dravyas, which are aimed at increasing Agni. In cases of inflammation, treatment often involves a combination of anti-inflammatory medicines and Ama-expelling remedies.
For individuals with Amatvam, it is advised to avoid the use of medicated oils, both internally and externally. Consumption of oily foods should also be minimised, as these can further inflame the body. While there are exceptions for external treatments under strict physician guidance, these recommendations generally hold true.
Similarly, consumption of cold foods and heavy foods like meat is restricted during treatment. The specifics of the treatment plan depend on individual factors such as body type and the severity and type of Amatvam present.
In conclusion, maintaining proper Agni is essential for optimal health and well-being. Only when our digestive fire is strong can we truly benefit from the foods that we eat and avoid the accumulation of Ama.
Amatvam is more common than many realise, and if you find yourself feeling unwell despite living a relatively healthy life, it may be time to seek help. Consult with our expert physicians at Dhanwanthari Ayurveda Vaidyasala and Hospitals, for a personalised plan to correct your Agni and regain good health.
Stay healthy!