Abstract

KARSHYA: A BRIEF REVIEW AND MANAGEMENT OF UNDERWEIGHT CHILDRENS

*Dr. Vaibhav Subhash Mhaske and Dr. Ravindra Rajpal

Abstract

Many diseases are known to affect human beings like infections, genetic, metabolic and nutritional deficiency disorders. Out of these nutritional diseases, by far most common in children throughout the world, Karshya [underweight] is the commonest one. In modern era, childrens have the habit of eating a lot of junk food. Their lifestyle changes also contribute to Karshya. It leads to the deteriorating health of children both physically and mentally. In India, underweight remains a significant and challenging public health issue despite implementing different nutritional policies over the period. It is also accompanying with aggravated risk of all-cause morbidity, as well as fatality. Ayurveda mentions about various nutritional disorders such as karshya, balashosha, phakka, yakshma and PEM (Protein Energy Malnutrition) which are having similar symptomatology and treatment approach.

Keywords: Karshya, Ayurveda, Balshosha, Underweight children, Malnutrition.