Throughout the readings, the issue of obesity is attributed to the lack of physical activity, lack of education, and poor nutritional habits. However, another important factor to consider in the issue of obesity is how people respond to images. The self image conveyed by western media that “thin is beautiful” contrasts with other cultures where beauty is associated with weight gain. How can medical science look beyond physical factors to determine the actual health and well-being of individuals in a more direct way?

How can western medical science benefit from some of the Eastern Ayurvedic practices and wholistic approaches to overall wellness and treatment of human disease?