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@article{182962,
        author = {Thanugula ShivPrasad Sharma and Amit Nampalliwar and Seeta M Biradar and Shweta Rawat and Mamata Kumari Swain},
        title = {Role of Ahara-Vihara in Prevention and Management of PCOS: An Observational Review},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {2},
        pages = {4200-4207},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=182962},
        abstract = {Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular ovulation, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovarian morphology. It often presents with symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, obesity, acne, and psychological distress. While modern medicine primarily focuses on pharmacological interventions for symptomatic relief, long-term management remains challenging due to side effects, recurrence, and lifestyle-related triggers. Objective: This review aims to explore and evaluate the role of Ahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle) — core concepts in Ayurveda — in the prevention and management of PCOS. The study assesses traditional Ayurvedic principles alongside observational data and contemporary findings to propose a holistic, sustainable approach to PCOS care. Methods: A qualitative observational review was conducted using data from classical Ayurvedic texts, published case studies, clinical reports, and peer-reviewed journal articles. Sources were selected based on their relevance to dietary and lifestyle interventions in PCOS, focusing on both theoretical foundations and real-world outcomes. Key Ayurvedic concepts were analyzed and correlated with modern physiological understandings of PCOS. Findings: The review revealed that Ayurvedic dietary principles (Ahara), which include light, digestible, anti-Kapha foods with spices that stimulate Agni, play a critical role in restoring metabolic balance. Similarly, lifestyle practices (Vihara) such as daily routines (Dinacharya), seasonal regimens (Ritucharya), yoga, pranayama, and stress management effectively regulate hormonal rhythms, reduce insulin resistance, and support reproductive health. Observational evidence indicates improvements in menstrual regularity, weight management, insulin sensitivity, and psychological well-being among PCOS patients who adopted Ayurvedic Ahara-Vihara protocols. Conclusion: Ayurveda’s holistic focus on individualized diet and lifestyle offers a promising complementary strategy for managing PCOS. Integrating Ahara and Vihara into conventional care not only addresses the root causes but also empowers women through sustainable self-care practices. Further clinical research and interdisciplinary collaboration are needed to validate and standardize these approaches for broader implementation.},
        keywords = {Ahara, Vihara, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Dinacharya, Ritucharya.},
        month = {July},
        }