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Authors and Publication Details

• Alicja Nowak, Klaudia Bogusz, Natalia Baran, Marcela Maksymowicz, Adriana Bielak, Aleksandra Nowak, Łucja Cywka, Weronika Szwed, Piotr Machowiec

• Title: Benefits of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) supplementation in obesity

• Journal: Journal of Education, Health and Sport

• Year Published: 2023

• Volume: 35

• Issue: 1

• Pages: 11-22

• eISSN: 2391-8306

• DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2023.35.01.001

• Open Access License: Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License

Introduction to Ashwagandha

• Scientific Name: Withania somnifera, commonly referred to as Ashwagandha, is a member of the Solanaceae family, renowned for its health benefits in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

• Common Names: It is often called Indian ginseng or winter cherry.

• Health Benefits: Known for its adaptogenic properties, Ashwagandha is particularly useful for individuals struggling with obesity and related health issues.

Benefits of Ashwagandha in Obesity

• Health Effects: Ashwagandha supplementation is linked with sedative, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer effects, and can improve insulin sensitivity, endurance, and reduce fat accumulation.

• Mechanisms of Action: It lowers blood cortisol levels, which inhibits fat accumulation and affects the genes involved in excessive adipose tissue growth.

Summary of Findings

• Adaptogen Use: Regular Ashwagandha intake has shown promise in obesity management as it may improve psychological and physical health outcomes.

• Research Necessity: More research is needed to solidify its role in obesity therapy and its possible preventive measures against obesity-related diseases.

Overview of Obesity and Health Implications

• Definition: Obesity is characterized by excessive body weight due to increased adipose tissue and is a global health concern affecting many.

• Health Risks: It contributes to various metabolic conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer. Factors influencing obesity include genetics, environment, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits.

Social and Psychological Impacts

• Increasing Incidence: Modern lifestyles, marked by inactivity and high-calorie diets, exacerbate the obesity epidemic.

• Therapy Needs: Effective obesity management strategies must encompass both energy intake and expenditure while addressing related health issues.

Mechanisms and Natural Compounds

• Research Interest: Scientists are focusing on natural compounds with anti-adipogenic properties, specifically those from Withania somnifera, for potential therapeutic applications in obesity.

Conclusion

• Therapeutic Potential: Ashwagandha shows promise in managing obesity through metabolic improvements and may assist in regulating stress and improving overall mental health. Its anti-cancer properties further suggest a multifaceted role in healthcare for obese individuals.

• Research Gaps: Continued exploration in clinical settings is crucial for establishing guidelines for safe and effective Ashwagandha usage in obesity management.