35. Understanding Weight Gain Through Ayurveda: A Practical Guide


This episode of Everyday Ayurveda with Kate O’Donnell unpacks the complex relationship between weight gain and the Ayurvedic doshas. Kate explains the different types of weight gain—Vata, Pitta, Kapha, and toxins (ama)—and shares practical tips for addressing each type. She dives deep into the root causes of weight gain, from stress and metabolic dysfunction to diet and lifestyle choices. Whether you’re feeling stuck with extra pounds or simply curious about how Ayurveda interprets weight gain, this episode offers grounded wisdom, clear guidance, and actionable steps to support your journey toward balance and well-being.
Episode Breakdown:
- Introduction to Ayurveda and Weight Gain: Why Ayurveda views weight gain as more than calories in vs. out.
- Types of Weight Gain:
- Kapha Type: Heaviness, stickiness, slow metabolism.
- Pitta Type: Stress-related inflammation and cortisol-driven weight gain.
- Vata Type: Puffiness from irregular eating and stress.
- Toxins (Ama): Metabolic waste impacting digestion.
- Kapha Type: Heaviness, stickiness, slow metabolism.
- Practical Solutions:
- Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, black pepper, turmeric.
- Meal timing that supports digestion and metabolic health.
- The importance of stress management and rest.
- Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, black pepper, turmeric.
- Holistic Advice: How lifestyle and emotional health influence weight.
Call to Action: Stay connected with Kate at https://www.instagram.com/kateodonnell.ayurveda/ and email hello@ayurvediclivinginstitute.com.
Resources & Links:
- Visit Acknowledge Farms: https://acknowledge.co
- Follow on Instagram: @acknowledge_wellness
- Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org
- Summer Self Care Workshop: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/summer-self-care-workshop
- Summer Bundle https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/bundles/SummerBundle
Thanks to our Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge, makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order.
00:00 - Introduction to Weight Gain and Ayurveda
01:49 - Understanding Weight Gain Types
03:25 - Kapha Type Weight Gain
05:55 - Pitta Type Weight Gain
09:43 - Vatta Type weight gain
12:17 - Toxins and Weight Gain
17:53 - Solutions and Advice
18:57 - Practical Tips for Weight Management
28:20 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts