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General Medicine
Question #39158
23 days ago
163

how to stop eating gutka - #39158

Joseph

I am really struggling with this whole gutka thing. For some reason, I got hooked on it a couple of years back during college stress, you know? At first, it was just social — like, everyone around me was doing it, and I thought it was harmless. Now I realize it’s affecting my health! I’ve been experiencing some weird stomach issues, maybe from the gutka, but also like fatigue and headaches. I don’t know if it’s just the gutka or something else going on. I tried to quit a few times, but I seriously have no idea how to stop eating gutka. It’s like a roller coaster — I go a few days without it, then boom! I’m right back at it. I think about the cravings and just the whole habit of it, feeling like I need it. I even read about some Ayurvedic remedies, like certain herbs and teas that might help, but I’m not sure where to start. Can someone tell me how to stop eating gutka in a way that feels manageable? I feel a bit lost and overwhelmed, honestly. What are some practical steps, or is there a specific Ayurvedic approach that can help with the cravings? Just looking for some guidance here! Thanks in advance!

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Doctors' responses

Struggling with gutka addiction can definitely affect your physical and mental health, and you’re not alone in facing this challenge. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, can offer practical steps to help manage these cravings while supporting your overall well-being. Begin by understanding the factors at play: gutka use may disturb your dosha balance, weaken agni (digestive fire), and impact dhatus (tissues) leading to issues like stomach discomfort.

First, stabilize your digestive health to build a strong foundation. Regular use of gutka may lead to an increase in vata dosha, contributing to digestive disturbances. Integrating warm, cooked meals, that are easy to digest, like kitchari (a blend of rice and lentils), can be soothing. Avoid cold, dry foods and opt for warm teas with ginger or fennel, which can stimulate agni and ease stomach issues. A small piece of ginger with a pinch of rock salt before meals is an effective remedy too.

Then, address cravings directly using Ayurvedic herbs. Try chewing on licorice root or ashwangandha, both known for their calming effects. Tulsi tea (holy basil) can also bring tranquility and help manage anxiety. It’s important to replace the habit cycle with these alternatives gradually, rather than attempting abrupt cessation.

Mindful practices play an essential role too. Engage in pranayama (breathing exercises) like Anulom Vilom or deep, diaphragmatic breathing to curb urges and relieve stress. Regular meditation strengthens mental resilience.

Finally, don’t ignore the community aspect. If stress-triggers tied to social environments exacerbated your habit, surround yourself with supportive companions who can motivate your journey towards quitting.

Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner if you continue to face challenges. They can offer a personalized plan pinpointing precise imbalances and tailored herbal formulations to support your unique constitution. Being patient and persistent through this process can bring sustainable healing.

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Quitting gutka can be challenging, but integrating Siddha-Ayurvedic principles might provide you with a sustainable way forward. Gutka addiction may disrupt the balance of the doshas, usually impacting the pitta and vata. Here’s a strategic way to tackle this:

Firstly, addressing the cravings: begin by introducing herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi into your regimen, as both have calming and adaptogenic properties which might help reduce anxiety and stress-related triggers. You can take these herbs in the form of capsules, powders, or teas. Licorice root can also soothe cravings and stabilize your system.

For stomach issues, supporting agni (digestive fire) is essential. Regular consumption of ajwain (carom seeds) with warm water post meals might enhance digestion. Try to eat more warm, soothing foods such as khichdi or lentil soups, avoiding heavy, oily, and excessively spicy food. This dietary adjustment can ease digestive discomfort and promote gut healing.

Daily routines such as Abhyanga (self-massage with warm sesame oil) can pacify vata and induce relaxation. Practicing Pranayama, especially Anulom Vilom and Bhramari will help in calming the mind and reducing stress cravings. A structured daily schedule, going to bed early, and maintaining consistent meal times reinforce stability, counteracting the irregularities introduced by gutka use.

For fatigue and headaches, maintaining hydration and including Triphala at bedtime could be beneficial in detoxifying your system. Consistent physical activity like yoga or a brisk walk promotes circulation and energy flow, further aiding the detox process.

Remember, behavioral change takes time, so allow yourself patience. If you find this journey somewhat overwhelming, consider consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can tailor the approach specifically to your prakriti. By integrating these practices with strong personal commitment, overcoming addiction may become more manageable.

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