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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Truths I Wish More People Understood About Ayurveda

Ayurveda, being the traditional system of medicine, is often compared with modern medicine. Not many people go for Ayurvedic treatment at the first chance. Many consider this as the last resort after having tried all other systems of medicine and failed. One of the main reasons is the lack of understanding of Ayurveda.  As an Ayurvedic doctor, here are 7 truths  that I wish more people understood.     7 truths about Ayurveda     Ayurveda is a life-long journey, not a 1-month challenge Ayurveda is not just about treating the symptoms. It is about digging deeper into the root cause of a health condition and treating it while ensuring that it does not reoccur through diet, exercise and medicines. It is also about the prevention of health conditions that are likely to occur in the future through food, lifestyle and medicines. These achievements cannot be made in a day or a month. That is why it is a life-long journey.   When you start eating food that suits your body (Prakriti), healing begins, rather than consuming food labelled as healthy. There are many food items are labelled as healthy.. But not all healthy foods are suitable for you. Ayurveda believes in eating whatever is suitable for your body and that is where your healing begins.   There is no one-size-fits-all approach in Ayurveda. Even identical twins with the same disease may need different diet, routines and medicines. Ayurveda does not believe in providing the same treatment for everyone with the same health condition. The diet, routines and medicines recommended differ from person to person.   Just like ‚body language, mind has a language too. No other medical science explains mind language like Ayurveda Many a times, physical health conditions are a result of the state of your mind. Ayurveda believes that mind has a language just like body language. And it is probably the only system of medicine that explains mind languages.   There would be fewer hospital admissions and surgeries in the world, if people started taking Ayurveda as the first line of treatment As I said above, Ayurveda treats the root cause of a health condition, which means there is lesser scope for the health condition to recur. So, if people started taking it as the first line of treatment ‚ right when they feel they need to consult a doctor for a health condition, there would be lesser hospital admissions and surgeries in the world. Ayurvedic treatment includes lifestyle changes and medicine.   If Ayurveda was a teacher, the first lesson would be on self-discipline Ayurvedic way of life imparts qualities like organization and self-discipline through a consistent daily routine. Therefore, it is not only your physical health that will improve when you choose Ayurveda. Your mental health will be in check and you also learn values like self-discipline.   These are only 7 truths, and more yet to come…   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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Ayurvedic Superfoods to Eat Daily

Ayurveda is all about customization when it comes to foods based on each person’s body type, mental state, imbalances, place of living, climatic conditions, etc. However, on the rarest of rarest occasions, Ayurveda also mentions certain foods universally good for everyone every day. The following list is one of them – Ayurvedic superfoods that you can eat daily. Chapter 8 of Ashtanga Hridayam Sutra Sthana mentions 7 Ayurvedic superfoods that can be eaten daily by anyone, is great for digestion and pacifies all Doshas.   Amla Amla or Indian gooseberry is one of the three ingredients of Triphala and has plenty of health benefits. It is widely used in Ayurveda, especially in making Ayurvedic products. Amla is rich in Vitamin C and this property supports adrenal glands, boosts cellular energy, and is great for skin and blood vessels. It is also good for digestion and boosts the immune system. Being fibrous in nature, Amla also helps relieve constipation and other gut health issues, while supporting the health of the heart and liver.   Pomegranate In Ayurveda, pomegranate is known as Dadima, and it is a popular Ayurvedic superfood, packed with nutrients and known for its blood-purifying properties.   Regular intake of pomegranate helps relieve digestive issues. The fruit has antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for managing heart problems and high cholesterol. Pomegranate seeds help enhance energy levels and sexual stamina in men. The extract of the seed or flower is antibacterial in nature, thus helping to manage dental problems.   Ghee Known as Ghrita in Sanskrit, Ayurveda considers Ghee as the first and most important of all foods. It tops the must-have food list of Ayurveda. Ghee has lots of health benefits. It has anti-ageing properties and is great for eye and skin health. It also helps improve intellect and memory, digestion and Ojus (vitality).   Mung Dal Ayurveda gives great significance to mung dal among all pulses and legumes, and Caraka Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text, advises people to consume it regularly. It is highly balancing and easy to digest. It helps balance Kapha and Pitta Doshas, and also works for Vata. Also, mung dal helps heal wounds, is great for throat disorders like cough, tonsillitis, etc. and the health of the thyroid gland. It also benefits the hair and skin and is good for eye disorders.   Honey Honey is what you can call a medicinal sweet in Ayurveda. Many people consider it a remedy for different health conditions and use it for both internal and external applications. Honey is used to treat eye diseases, hiccups, thirst, cough, phlegm, diabetes, obesity, and more. It is also great for digestion. Another benefit of honey is that it acts as an emetic and laxative and helps flush out toxins and undigested food present in the alimentary canal.   Black Raisins Black raisins are packed with antioxidants and iron and are of high medicinal value. It is great for the lungs, nourishes respiratory systems, has a positive effect on the mind and memory and balances emotions. Consuming black raisins soaked overnight helps in bowel movements. Raisin is also a Bringhana food that supports natural fertility in women. It is also great for the hair and for cleansing the blood.   Tender radish Ayurveda recommends the intake of radish on a daily basis. It balances Vata and Kapha and awakens Pitta in the digestive tract. It is a diuretic and provides a cooling effect to the body. Tender radish is also great for health conditions, like, cold, cough, fever, asthma, diabetes, allergies and throat disorders. The flowers, fruit and seeds of tender radish have medicinal properties.   My favourite on the list is Amla! I believe part of the reason for the health of my hair, eyes and digestive system is due to the gazillion Amlas I have consumed in my whole life, no doubt!   What’s your favourite among the Ayurvedic superfoods that has helped you?   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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Gas or Bloating Remedies in Ayurveda

Bloating or gas is one of the common digestive issues faced by many. unhealthy food habits, indigestion, desk-bound lifestyle – all contribute to bloating. According to Ayurveda,  bloating or gas is caused due to a weak digestive fire (Agni). They call it aadhmaana and it is a kind of vata imbalance.  Bloating that occurs occasionally is considered normal. However, if it is frequent, it is a sign of imbalance in digestion. Bloating in our abdomen happens when our gastrointestinal tract is not able to split the food into smaller particles for absorption. The body then retains the food, converting it to toxins and receiving no nourishment.  Ayurveda suggests the following remedy for relief from bloating. Garlic milk This recipe is from Caraka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. Ingredients Garlic ‚Äì 5g Milk ‚Äì 50ml Water ‚Äì 50 ml Preparation Add garlic paste to milk and water and boil it until the quantity reduces to 50ml.  Strain and drink 10ml two times a day after food. Benefits Garlic milk is good for subsiding gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and constipation. This recipe is also suitable for people with heart disease and arthritis. Ayurveda recommends using small garlic over big ones, though the latter is easy to clean. The reason is that small garlic has more health benefits than big garlic. Small garlic is good for the heart, eyes, liver, hair, hot potency and anti-ageing. It is also useful for relief from worms and digestive issues and for healing wounds. It also reduces Vata and improves vitality. Big garlic, however, is the inferior variety. It has all benefits of small garlic but to a lesser extent. It is also extremely Pitta increasing. Remember, garlic milk is medicine. So, it is not advisable to consume it daily forever. You can use it for a few days and stop it. But, do not store the garlic milk to use later.   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.