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Kitchari Myths and the Truth About Its Ingredients

“Kitchari is a nutritious Indian dish consisting of rice and lentils or occasionally mung beans. Highly favored by Ayurvedic practitioners, Kitchari is an ideal dish for purifying the body. It is also comforting when you are not feeling well or bouncing back from overindulgence. Kitchari is unique because it provides both a cleansing and nourishing effect on the body. It is easily digestible, giving your body a chance to rest, assisting in removing toxins from the body and improving the health of the digestive system. Lentils and beans are rich in protein, which can help prevent hunger and reduce fat storage in the body. Kitchari is nourishing and helps keep you satisfied, making it easier to stay committed to the cleanse without feeling hungry. ” The notion that I have described above is what I have found in Google elaborating all the benefits of Kitchari, but there are some quick facts that I would like to share related to this concept. Kitchari is the most famous and hyped Ayurvedic Food on the internet. It is a typical Indian lunch dish. Ayurveda is much more than a Kitchari! There are so many fantastic recipes (I will introduce a few in my future posts) in Ayurveda; why only Kitchari? The fact is, most Kitchari recipes I have come across on the internet and in many Western Ayurvedic cookbooks are totally wrong. So why is Kitchari, not the real Kitchari? Firstly, the name itself is wrong! Sanskrit name (Ayurvedic texts): Krsara Indian name (Hindi): Khichdi Internet name: Kitchari (Who named this?) During my six years in Ayurveda College, I did not have Wi-Fi. I had no access to the outside world. Once I came to Dubai and started reading up things online, I had a revelation – Kichari is synonymous with Ayurveda! Whoever talks about Ayurvedic food talks about the dish! I had to literally go back to my textbooks to see if I missed something so important! I just realized that’s how the Ayurvedic internet world works and also went through a few Western Ayurvedic books – they also mention the same Kitchari but got all that wrong! First, it is not made with Basmati Rice (Basmati rice is the most inferior quality of rice according to Ayurveda) Also, it is not made with coconut oil (Coconut oil is heavy, cold, and difficult to digest). The new-age Kitchari is heavy and hard to digest, while the real Ayurvedic one is totally digestible, light, and suitable for all Doshas, especially Vata! It is excellent as a mono diet for detoxification, too! The recipe This is the (Real) recipe for preparing Kitchari. Ingredients 12 parts unbroken Sona Masoori rice Eight parts mung beans, a.k.a green gram (soaked) Asafoetida Fresh ginger Ghee Salt to taste How to prepare: Cook rice and soaked mung beans in water till it comes to a dry oatmeal consistency. In a pan, add one tablespoon of ghee, fresh ginger, asafoetida and turmeric. Add a little salt to taste if you wish, and add to the cooked rice beans mix. That’s it! Simple. Light. Digestive! Kitchari is one of the most delicious and healthy foods for the diet, but you should focus on preparing it with the correct ingredients and cooking methods. I can name you the most famous western Ayurvedic author, giving Kitchari recipe with Basmati rice and coconut oil, making it totally wrong!! Try to learn and practice Ayurveda directly from authentic Ayurvedic textbooks written by Vagbhata, Caraka, or Susrutha. Trust me, your eyes will open to a whole new world! If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Inflammatory Foods You Should Avoid for Better Health

Inflammation is a symptom that is generally associated with a variety of health conditions. While the best way to reduce inflammation is to get the root cause treated, it is equally important to keep away from factors that induce inflammation. One of those factors is inflammatory foods. Three Inflammatory foods you must avoid Let us dig deeper into the three inflammatory foods that Ayurveda suggests you should avoid to reduce further complications. Curd Despite being a common ingredient, Ayurveda rules out curd for its heating nature. Curd is a Pitta-increasing food resulting in clogging of channels (Srotas) and increased Ama (toxins). The heaviness and stickiness of curd make it difficult to digest, especially for Kapha-dominant people causing joint stiffness and bloating. Black gram Black gram is also a heavy heating food which can aggravate Kapha and Pitta Dosha, and is not recommended for everyday consumption. Consuming black gram can lead to inflammation in a person with a tendency toward swelling, joint problems and slow digestion. Eggplant Eggplant can cause channel blockages due to its unwholesome and inflammatory properties, so it is not recommended for regular use. It is heating and creates an imbalance of Doshas; especially in those with a Pitta constitution. As a result, it aggravates joint issues, potentially increasing discomfort for individuals with arthritis or inflammation-related conditions. An individual who exercises daily and has good Agni (digestive fire) can moderately consume eggpant. However, if you have health conditions, Dosha imbalance, improper lifestyle or impaired digestion, it is better to avoid it. Inflammation — The Ayurvedic Perspective Ayurveda believes that the balance of Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—is essential for health. The imbalance of any of these Doshas can contribute to inflammation on one or more parts of your body. In Ayurveda, inflammation or swelling is referred to as “Shotha” or “Shopha.” The condition is classified into different types, mainly based on their causes as per Charaka Samhita. त्रयः शोथा भवन्ति वातपित्तश्लेष्मनिमित्ताः, ते पुनर्द्विविधा निजागन्तुभेदेन There are three kinds of swelling: Vataja – caused by the imbalance of Vata Dosha Pittaja – caused by the imbalance of Pitta Dosha Kaphaja – caused by the imbalance of Kapha Dosha These can be further categorised into: Nija – caused by internal factors, such as vitiation of Doshas Agantuja – caused by external factors, such as wounds and fractures More Inflammatory Foods To Watch Out For The list of inflammatory foods do not end with the above three. There are more foods that you can avoid for better health. Refined sugar Ayurveda classifies refines sugar as a Tamasic food, which is devoid of good positive life energy, leading to Ama (toxins) accumulation. This drains our energy and clogs the channels in our body. Processed foods and fast foods These foods are heavy to digest, thus leading to the accumulation of Ama in the body and Dosha imbalances. Also, they do nothing to support Agni (digestive fire) and promote inflammation. Alcohol and caffeine Alcohol increases Pitta, causing warmth, redness and swelling, and can put stress on the liver. Caffeine is a stimulant that can irritate both the digestive and nervous systems, leading to dehydration and worsening inflammation. Inflammation is not a disease, but a symptom. If you have a health condition with inflmmation in the body, consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor and get the root cause treated. And yes, stay away from anything that can worsen your condition, that including the inflammatory foods listed above. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who is always glad to helps you . If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit.

Quantity of Food Guide for Optimal Health

In Ayurvedic nutrition, we do not count the calories or weigh the food in grams. The quality of food matters more than quantity. Ayurveda thinks of food as medicine. This means the choices you make about what you eat can affect your health. When I treat my patients, 80% of the treatment involves coming up and implementing a suitable diet plan considering many factors, like their health conditions, body constitution (Prakriti) etc. And to decide on the quantity, we look at the digestive fire (Agni) of the patient. Right Quantity of Foods you should eat ! Every individual is different and therefore, the quantity of food you can have depends on your Prakriti. Kapha – less is more! Kapha people have a low digestive fire and therefore, have a sluggish digestion. Therefore, the quantity of food they consume should be minimal. Excessive consumption easily causes Ama (toxic waste accumulation) and leads to more lethargy, tiredness, weight gain and other conditions. Pitta- feed the fire! Pitta people have a high digestive fire. If you eat less, the fire will not be satisfied, leading to acidity and heartburn. Hence the quantity of food should be more. Vata – I’m unpredictable! Vata people, on the other hand, have irregular digestion. It may be good one day, but bad on the other. Hence it is difficult to say whether Vata people should eat more or less. However, one general rule you can use is to eat until the stomach is half full. In general, all Prakriti can aim at eating food until their stomachs are half full (leaving the rest for air and water). However, if you have Kapha or Vata predominance, choose your quantity wisely. Now if you have no idea what your Prakriti is, please consult an Ayurvedic doctor. Do not attempt those online quizzes as most of them are not accurate. Rules of eating right quantity of food Ayurveda has set certain guidelines for eating. They include the following: Eat warm food, added with good fats. Eat the right quantity, after the digestion of the previous meal. Eat favourable food. Eat compatible foods. Do not talk or laugh while eating. Eat neither too slow nor too fast. Engage all your senses, body and mind while eating (mindful eating). The last point is the most important of them all. Be aware of what you eat, how much you eat and how you eat and see how it has a positive impact on your overall health! If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

How Much Food Should You Eat Daily?

According to Ayurveda, food is medicine. Along with routine and medicines, diet is equally important for healing and remaining healthy. That is why it is important to choose the right quantity of food to consume. Ayurveda gives utmost importance to digestion. An imbalanced digestive fire (Agni) is the reason of all diseases. Therefore, eat mindfully considering your body type or Prakriti and health conditions. Also, in Ayurveda, the quality of food is more important than quantity and the digestive fire or Agni, is taken into account to decide the amount of food one should consume. Consumption of Food Due to their poor digestive fire, Kapha individuals frequently have slow digestion. Overeating can result in Ama or toxic waste accumulation, which can cause fatigue, lethargy, weight gain and other health issues. Food should therefore be consumed in moderation by Kapha people. Little, regular meals can help keep the digestive fire going and prevent the buildup of Ama over the day. On the other hand, Pitta people have a high digestive fire, and consuming less food can lead to acidity and heartburn. Hence, the quantity of food should be more for Pitta individuals. However, it is important to avoid overeating as this can lead to indigestion, inflammation and other health issues. Choosing cooling and hydrating foods can also help balance Pitta and prevent heat-related imbalances. Vata people have irregular digestion, and it may be good one day but bad on the other. Hence, it is difficult to determine if Vata individuals should consume more or less food. However, one general rule of thumb is to eat until the stomach is half full. This allows enough space for air and water, which aids in digestion and prevents overeating. In general, all Prakritis can aim at eating food until the stomach is half full. This practice promotes healthy digestion, prevents overeating and allows for mindful eating. It is also essential to avoid distractions while eating, such as watching television or using electronic devices, as this can lead to mindless eating and overconsumption. Apart from the quantity of food, the quality of food is also important in Ayurvedic nutrition. Eating fresh, seasonal and whole foods that are appropriate for one’s Prakriti can promote overall health and balance. Processed and packaged foods should be avoided as they are typically high in preservatives, additives and other artificial ingredients that can disrupt the balance of the body. Ayurvedic nutrition places a strong emphasis on mindful eating, which involves focusing on the tastes, textures, and aromas of food while consuming it. In order to aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, it also entails taking the time to chew meals thoroughly. Mindful eating can help avoid overeating, which also helps to improve general health and well-being. In conclusion, choosing the right quantity of food in Ayurvedic nutrition involves considering an individual’s Prakriti and digestive fire. Kapha individuals should consume minimal amounts of food, Pitta individuals should consume more, and Vata individuals should aim for half-full stomachs. Mindful eating and selecting quality, whole foods appropriate for one’s Prakriti are also crucial for promoting balance and overall health. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Is horse gram good for Pitta bodies?

Horse gram is a popular legume that is often consumed in South India. It is rich in fibre and protein and is great for people looking to lose their weight. However, horse gram is not ideal for all, especially if you are a Pitta body. Pitta Dosha is one of the three Doshas (biophysical energies). This Dosha is responsible for digestion and all metabolic activities as well as maintaining body heat. However, when Pitta aggravates, it can lead to problems like acidity, inflammation and skin issues. So, if you have a Pitta predominant body type, having horse gram can do more harm that good. Nature of Horse Gram Horse gram is considered hot and dry, and it has a spicy taste. These qualities can make Pitta Dosha even more imbalanced because Pitta is already hot. Eating spicy and hot foods can make your body even hotter and cause issues like heartburn and inflammation. Also, horse gram can be hard to digest. People with a lot of Pitta already have strong digestion, and eating tough-to-digest foods can strain the digestive system and lead to problems. This can create toxins (Ama) in the body, making Pitta Dosha even worse. Furthermore, horse gram is drying, and Pitta individuals tend to have dry skin and hair. Eating drying foods can make these issues worse and lead to dryness in the digestive system, causing constipation and other stomach problems. According to Ayurveda, it is best to eat foods that help balance your Doshas. So, if you have a lot of Pitta, it is better to eat foods that cool your body down and keep it hydrated. Some examples of these cooling foods are cucumber, coconut, melons and leafy greens. Horse gram is not the best choice for people with a lot of Pitta in their bodies because it is hot, hard to digest, and drying. If you are a Pitta person, it is better to focus on eating foods that cool you down and keep you hydrated to balance your Dosha and stay healthy. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Hummus recipe of Delicious and healthy Ayurvedic Food

As an Ayurvedic doctor, I firmly believe that a healthy diet forms the cornerstone of a balanced and vibrant lifestyle. Ayurveda considers food as medicine and therefore, what you eat has an important role to play in your overall well-being and healing. So, here is a simple Ayurvedic Hummus recipe to add to your diet. This Ayurvedic Hummus recipe thoughtfully combines ingredients that are aligned with Ayurvedic principles to nurture your overall health. The Ayurvedic Hummus Recipe Ingredients: 2 cups cubed roasted sweet potato 1.5 cups boiled chickpeas (soak before boiling for 5-6 hours) 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup tahini 2 tablespoons of lemon juice 1/2 tablespoon salt Method of preparation: Roast the sweet potato at 425°F for 30 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Then, add all the ingredients mentioned above to the food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer it to another bowl and enjoy your Ayurvedic Hummus. If you want, you can add well-soaked nuts and seeds along with boiled chickpeas. Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein and essential micronutrients, further enriching the Ayurvedic Hummus. The addition of roasted sweet potato, furthermore, provides a grounding and soothing quality to this Hummus. Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, fibre and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for supporting digestive health and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Boiled chickpeas are a vital component of this Ayurvedic Hummus. Chickpeas are easily digestible and a good source of plant-based protein. Soaking the chickpeas before boiling enhances their digestibility and nutrient absorption. These legumes also offer a good amount of soluble fibre, which aids in promoting a healthy gut and cholesterol levels. Ayurveda recommends incorporating healthy fats into our diet and olive oil is a preferred option due to its numerous health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health and helps reduce inflammation. Made from sesame seeds, tahini provides a nutty flavour and a creamy texture to the Hummus. Sesame seeds are an excellent source of minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron, enhancing bone health and supporting overall vitality. The tangy freshness of lemon juice not only adds flavour but also aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant. A small amount of salt enhances the taste of the Hummus while balancing the flavours. Ayurveda advises using mineral-rich salts like Himalayan or sea salt in moderation. For those looking to explore additional flavours and health benefits, consider adding well-soaked nuts and seeds to the Hummus along with the boiled chickpeas. Incorporating this Ayurvedic Hummus into your diet can, indeed, be a delightful and healthful experience. Furthermore, it not only enhances your meals but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. By embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda and its focus on balanced nutrition, you take a step towards nurturing your body, mind and soul. The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas and other natural ingredients in this Hummus recipe exemplifies the fusion of flavor and nutrition, and it can be a valuable addition to your journey towards optimal health and well-being. With Ayurveda, you can explore the abundance of nature’s bounty and embrace the nourishing properties of foods in your pursuit of a healthier and more fulfilling life. Enjoy the Ayurvedic Hummus and, furthermore, savour the journey of holistic wellness it sets you upon. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Vegetarian or Not ? Unpacking the Ayurvedic Diet

Food

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that places a strong emphasis on harmony and balance in all facets of life, including diet and nutrition. Although Ayurvedic diet is frequently connected with vegetarianism, adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require becoming a vegetarian. Ayurveda’s food advice based on an individual’s body constitution (Prakriti), digestive capacity and health, since it understands that each person is unique and has varied nutritional needs. Ayurveda also stresses the need to consume full, seasonal meals that are fresh and in season and that are suitable for one’s constitution and digestive system. This indicates that the quality of the cuisine emphasized over its vegetarian status. Animal products can give the body vital nutrients and nourishment when eaten in moderation and with awareness, according to Ayurveda. To protect the environment and health, Ayurveda recommends sourcing and processing animal products ethically. Importance of Vegetarian Diet Ayurveda also acknowledges the importance of the mind-body connection to general health and wellness. It highlights the significance of mindful eating, which is being present and conscious of the food and eating process while avoiding distractions like television or mobile phones. Ayurveda emphasizes peaceful meal settings to avoid negative effects on digestion due to emotions like stress, anger, or disturbance. In conclusion, living an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require being a vegetarian. An Ayurvedic diet requires individuals to consume, fresh, and seasonal foods, which suit their Prakriti and digestive capacity. Ayurveda acknowledges that animal products can give the body vital nutrients and sustenance when ingested in moderation and with awareness. Ayurveda recommends responsibly sourcing and processing animal products to protect the environment and health. To maintain the best digestive health, Ayurveda highlights mindful eating for optimal digestive health, discouraging eating under stress or distraction. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

I have always been fascinated by the coconut tree! It is considered the “tree of life” by many cultures around the world. Coconut trees provide so many different products and is a staple food in many tropical regions. One of the lesser-known parts of the coconut tree is the coconut sprouts. People often overlook this delicious and nutritious delicacy. Coconut sprouts, also known as coconut hearts or palm hearts, are the inner core of the coconut tree’s growing tip. People usually harvest them before the tree has a chance to fully mature, typically when the tree is around three years old. The sprouts are tender and succulent, with a mild flavour that is similar to asparagus or artichokes. One of the best things about coconut sprouts is their nutritional value. They are low in calories but high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and more. Also being a good source of antioxidants, they help protect against cellular damage and disease. Ways to prepare coconut sprouts There are many different ways to prepare coconut sprouts. You can eat them raw, slice and add them to salads or sandwiches, or cook and use them in a variety of dishes. One of my favourite ways to enjoy coconut sprouts is to sauté them with garlic and olive oil. Then serve them as a side dish or add them to a stir-fry. One can also pickle, can, or dry them and use them in soups, stews, and other recipes. Medicinal properties In addition to their nutritional and culinary benefits, coconut sprouts also have some medicinal properties. They help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and boost the immune system. They also have a calming effect on the nervous system and help relieve stress and anxiety. Despite their many benefits, coconut sprouts are not widely known or available outside of tropical regions. This is partly because they are a relatively rare and delicate crop. And partly because they are not as well-known or popular as other parts of the coconut tree. However, there is growing interest in them and their potential as a sustainable and healthy food source. As someone who has grown up around coconut trees and eaten coconut sprouts many times, I feel lucky to have access to this delicious and nutritious delicacy. I believe that more people should learn about and appreciate their many benefits – both for their health and for the environment. By promoting coconut sprouts and other underutilized crops, we can help diversify our diets and support more sustainable and resilient food systems. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital. … Continue reading Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

Coconut Water in Ayurveda

Ayurveda places great importance on natural remedies and nutrition for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Tender coconut water is one of the most treasured natural remedies in Ayurveda. This refreshing drink is rich in nutrients and has numerous health benefits, making it a staple in Ayurvedic practices.

Immunity Boosting With These 5 Foods

Ayurveda defines strong immunity as a result of good digestion, strong Agni (digestive fire), good liver functioning and a balanced endocrine system. There are many natural foods available that help enhance your immunity. According to Ayurveda, you should add these foods to your diet to boost your immune system. The 5 Foods to Boost Immunity: Amla (Indian gooseberry) Amla has more Vitamin C than in Acai or oranges and has rich anti-oxidant properties that help protect our blood cells from oxidative stress and enhance immune cell function. The Vitamin C in Amla thus helps prevent as well as recover from different types of infections, like common cold. Amla suits every body type and is easy to digest. Dates According to Ayurveda, drinking warm water, in fact, makes you feel lighter. The fruit is rich in immunity-boosting elements, such as magnesium, copper, selenium antioxidant, etc. that are necessary for immune response. Ghee (clarified butter) Ghee benefits the Sapta Dhatus (7 tissue systems) of the body and is rich in antioxidants. It has both gut-health-boosting and detoxification properties that are great for the immune system. Dry ginger Dry ginger is rich in antioxidants. It helps build immunity and reduce inflammation. It is also great for the digestive system. Black raisins Black raisins improve blood quality and have the potential to reduce the inflammatory response. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that help boost the immune system and recover from infections. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

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