Ayurvedic Dinacharya and Modifiable Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Narrative Integrative Review in the Context of the INTERHEART Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52482/ayurline.v10i06.1124Keywords:
Dinacharya; Ayurveda; cardiovascular risk factors; atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease; INTERHEART; lifestyle medicineAbstract
Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The INTERHEART study identified several modifiable risk factors associated with myocardial infarction, emphasizing comprehensive lifestyle modification. Ayurveda describes Dinacharya as a preventive framework for maintaining physiological, metabolic and psychological health.
Objective: To examine the potential role of Ayurvedic Dinacharya in addressing cardiovascular risk factors identified in the INTERHEART study and assess the evidence supporting its components.
Materials and Methods: A narrative integrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts, including the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with literature retrieved from PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar. Evidence concerning physical activity, dietary regulation, Pranayama, meditation, Abhyanga, sleep-wake regulation and warm-water intake was narratively correlated with cardiovascular risk factors.
Results: The strongest evidence was observed for physical activity, healthy dietary practices, stress reduction and avoidance of harmful behaviours. Exercise-based interventions showed favourable effects on blood pressure, arterial stiffness, insulin sensitivity, body weight and cardiorespiratory fitness. Pranayama and meditation may support stress reduction and autonomic regulation. Evidence for Abhyanga, warm-water intake, early awakening and comprehensive Dinacharya remained limited or indirect. Direct evidence for reduction in cardiovascular events or mortality was lacking.
Conclusion: Dinacharya may serve as a culturally relevant complementary lifestyle framework for addressing modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. It should not replace established preventive cardiology or medical treatment. Long-term clinical studies are needed to evaluate comprehensive Dinacharya interventions and cardiovascular outcomes.
Keywords: Dinacharya; Ayurveda; cardiovascular risk factors; ASCVD; INTERHEART; lifestyle medicine.
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