Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, places great emphasis on the
relationship between food and health. According to Ayurveda, a healthy diet is one that
balances the three doshas, or bodily humors: vata, pitta, and kapha. Here are some
general guidelines for establishing eating habits as per Ayurveda:
Eat fresh, whole foods: Ayurveda recommends eating fresh, unprocessed foods as
much as possible. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Eat warm, cooked foods: Ayurveda recommends eating warm, cooked foods to aid
digestion and balance the doshas. Raw foods are generally not recommended, as they
can be difficult to digest.
Eat according to your dosha: Ayurveda categorizes people into three doshas, and each
dosha has specific dietary guidelines. For example, those with a vata dosha should eat
warm, ground foods, while those with a pitta dosha should eat cooling foods to balance
their fiery nature.
Eat mindfully: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of mindful eating. This means
taking time to enjoy your food, chewing slowly, and avoiding distractions while eating.
Avoid processed foods: Ayurveda recommends avoiding processed foods, as they can
be difficult to digest and may contain harmful additives. They are considered stale food
hence vitiate doshas in our body leading to various lifestyle ailments.
Eat at regular intervals: Ayurveda recommends eating at regular intervals to maintain a
balanced metabolism. This means eating 2-3 meals a day, with no snacking in between
as per your body constitution.
Eat only when you are hungry.
Avoid overeating: Ayurveda recommends avoiding overeating, as this can lead to
indigestion and other health problems. Instead, eat until you are about 75% full.
Drink warm water: Ayurveda recommends drinking warm water throughout the day, as
this can help to flush toxins from the body and aid digestion.
Eat in a calm environment: Ayurveda recommends eating in a calm environment, free
from distractions and stress.
Remember, Ayurvedic dietary guidelines are meant to be individualized based on your
unique dosha and health concerns. It is always best to consult with an Ayurvedic
practitioner or counselor to determine the best eating habits for your specific needs.