Rice Battle – Which One Wins for Everyday Nutrition?

Rice is medicine in Ayurveda. Also known as Anna, it is the first food mentioned in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, it is the lightest food to digest and has a sweet taste. It is a nourishing food, which is cooling in nature. Rice can also be with vegetables, pulses and nuts to make it healthier and more nutritious. It is one of the staple foods in many countries across the world, including India. It is an essential part of the Indian diet and symbolizes fertility, wealth and good health.   Vata,   Pitta,  Kapha  and Rice Many people consider it good for balancing Vata and Pitta, two of the three doshas. However, the nature of rice, which creates excess mucus in the body, makes overconsumption of it not considered ideal for Kapha. Eat that cooked well in plenty of water with a dollop of ghee added to balance Vata. Desserts prepared with rice and milk have a cooling nature, so you can consume them to balance Pitta. To balance Kapha, consuming a smaller quantity of it is recommended.  If you are trying to balance Kapha in your body, dry roast the rice before cooking it in water to consume. According to Ayurveda, anytime is a good time to consume rice. Ayurveda recommends the consumption of old rice as It has an amazing healing effect on the body . There are also other different varieties of it, such as basmati , polished , unpolished , boiled , parboiled , etc.   Nutrition   Modern nutrition considers brown rice to be healthier as it is unprocessed, and comes with more nutrition and vitamins than other varities of it.  It also has a lower glycemic index compared to the other types. However, Ayurveda prefers white over brown for daily consumption. Ayurveda is all about digestion. According to Ayurveda, the best time gap between meals is 1 Prahara, which is approximately three hours. Any food that stays in our body for more than 3 hours gets converted to undigested toxic waste or Ama. A rice with husk, for example, brown rice, has fibre in it. Any types without husk or lesser fibre content, such as white rice, digest easily and exit the system. Therefore, people find white rice to be light, easily digestible, recommended for daily consumption (nityasevaneeya), and they consider it a superior food.   How to cook it in the right way?   Here is the traditional Ayurvedic way of cooking rice. Wash rice in water until the water runs clear. Sona Masoori and Ambe Mohar are the most recommended  for everyday use. Basmati is comparatively heavier and therefore, can be used once or twice a month. Then, soak it for at least an hour. Meanwhile, boil water. You can take the water twice or thrice the quantity of it. Once the water boils, add soaked rice to it, and cook it covered. When it bubbles, remove the cover and cook it until it turns soft. You can then strain the water out. Enjoy the it with a side of dal and cooked vegetables.   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.   You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  … Continue reading Rice Battle – Which One Wins for Everyday Nutrition?

Ghee, The Ayurvedic Wonder

Ghee is known for its several advantages. It is known for its capacity to help with everything from hair health to cognitive function. Perhaps that is why our grandmothers used to feed us ghee-laden rotis and laddoos. Even Ayurveda loves ghee for its amazing health benefits! However, if you’ve never truly liked this crowd-pleaser, that’s alright.   Ghee is the best, no doubt! It is great for everyday use. However, Ayurveda says contrary to common opinion, it isn’t suitable for everyone. There are some lesser-known downsides of eating ghee, alongside crucial benefits. It won’t be appropriate for certain health conditions!   Today, we are going to know why! So, let’s start!   But First, What is Ghee?   Ghee is a clarified or drawn butter used especially in Indian cuisine. Clarification means separating milk solids and water from fat using heat. It can be made by boiling butter for longer than clarified butter, allowing the milk solids to brown before filtering it.   As a result, it has a rich, nuttier flavour than typical clarified butter. There are many misunderstandings regarding it as a fatty meal. However, Ayurveda considers it as a good fat. It  has several health advantages if consumed in moderation and with the appropriate meals.   People in India use an ancient system of alternative medicine known as Ayurveda. It is prominent in Ayurveda-recommended meals. You can use ghee  in combination with herbal therapies as well. It has lately gained appeal as a superior alternative to ordinary butter owing to its reported spiritual and medicinal benefits.    It has a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for cooking and serving as a foundation for gravies and stews. Furthermore, ghee is abundant in monounsaturated fats, which are found in studies to offer health advantages such as decreased cholesterol levels.    Some Amazing Advantages Of Ghee   Ghee is used alongside herbal therapy as part of Ayurveda, an ancient alternative medicine in India. Aside from its purported spiritual and therapeutic powers, it has many fantastic advantages.   Has healthy fats   It includes beneficial fats that help the body create good cholesterol. Unlike other forms of fat, it does not promote heart disease.   Helps digestion   Consuming ghee significantly associates with gut health. Our ancestors ate a teaspoon of it before each meal. It lined the intestines, which reduced the incidence of ulcers and cancer.   Boosts the immune system   The butyric acid in it aids the body’s production of disease-fighting T cells.   Contains essential vitamins   It is also is a good source of oil-soluble vitamins A and E, necessary for a healthy liver, hormonal balance, and fertility.   Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer   This contains butyric acid, which has anti-cancer potential. It has anti-inflammatory properties since it contains antioxidants.   Reduces bladder pain   Several healthcare specialists advocate giving cow ghee in the morning to alleviate bladder discomfort. One can consume garlic cloves mixed with cow ghee to treat persistent fever. To treat dry mouth and taste buds, use amla powder mixed with raisins and cow ghee in the mouth for a few minutes.   Haritaki powder combined with cow ghee is recommended for stomach discomfort since it works as an antispasmodic. Cow ghee combined with sugar might be an effective alternative to Triphala decoction, which frequently produces side effects.   Strengthens bones   Ghee includes vitamin A, which promotes eye health and protects against night blindness, and Vitamin K, which helps calcium absorption. It helps reduce tooth decay and atherosclerosis. Also, discover wholesome meals for healthy bones.   Treats menstrual problems   Ghee helps regulate the body’s hormones to treat menstrual difficulties. It became a good alternative for treating menstrual disorders, including PMS and irregular cycles.   Helps to reduce weight loss   Ghee boosts the body’s metabolism, making it an effective weight loss tool. Consuming it allows the body to burn other fats, which results in weight loss.   Post-surgery recovery    In ancient India, cow ghee was used as a base to create wicks after surgery. Ayurvedic treatments often use it over surgical sutures to promote rapid healing.  To cure piles and fistulas, doctors use a specific concoction called Kshara, which contains cow ghee.   It is a remarkable healing capabilities make it an excellent choice following an accident or surgery. Initially, we put cow ghee into the ear lobes of youngsters to relieve discomfort and irritation while simplifying the piercing process.   According to Ayurveda, “You are not what you eat. Instead, you are what you digest.”  Your health is directly proportionate to your digestive fire (Agni). More than any other meal, ghee activates and improves your digestive fire or Agni.   However, there are many scenarios when you should avoid it. Let’s discuss them.   When Should You Avoid Ghee?   It’s a vital topic because ghee is a healthy dairy product that contains no health risks when used in moderation. However, if you have pre-existing high cholesterol or high blood pressure issues and live a sedentary lifestyle, you should avoid consuming ghee. On the contrary, if your doctor advises you to avoid it in your diet, you should do so.     Here are  5 situations when you should avoid having ghee according to Ayurveda.   If You Suffer From Indigestion   Ghee is heavy to digest. So, while it  may act as a laxative for some, it may have the opposite effect for those suffering from indigestion. Also, if you have a fatty liver, including ghee in your diet isn’t a good choice.   Because it is a dairy product, persons sensitive to milk proteins might experience a rash, hives, vomiting, or diarrhea. Similarly, people who are lactose intolerant may suffer bloating, gas, or stomach distress after eating ghee. On the other hand, this can reduce allergy symptoms since it is filtered and has no milk protein. If you have a milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance, ask your doctor if ghee should be a part of… Continue reading Ghee, The Ayurvedic Wonder

Dinner Options According to Ayurveda

Breakfast is generally thought of as the most important meal of the day. However, it does not mean that the other two meals are any less important. Many skip dinner so that they do not gain weight. But in reality, this practice can only disrupt the system, leading to health problems and weight gain.   Ayurveda has always suggested healthy and light food for dinner. Our digestive fire (Agni) is the lowest in the last part of the day. When we eat heavy food with a high glycaemic index, our bodies do not digest it properly. Undigested food can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body. This accumulation is called Ama, which becomes the reason for chronic diseases and much more in the long run. Hence, dinner has to be the lightest meal of the day according to Ayurveda. Here are the     7 dinner options that Ayurveda     Vegetable soup   Vegetable soup is packed with nutrients. It is also light and digestive, allowing you to go to bed without the feeling of a full stomach.   Roasted vegetables   Vegetables are light and rich in nutrients. Therefore, roasted vegetables make up for a comfortable and easy dinner. You can also add spices and ghee to make it more digestive and tasty.   Lentil soup with green chutney   Lentils are a great source of protein. A bowl of lentil soup with green chutney is light and easy to digest and is also complete with 6 tastes. You can add spices to the soup to make it more digestive and delicious.   Barley soup   A bowl of barley soup with spices and ghee is a healthy and easy-to-digest dinner option. It can help in weight loss and helps manage health conditions, such as diabetes and urinary system disorders.   Krisra   This Ayurvedic dish made with sona masoori rice, green mung beans, ginger, asafoetida, salt and ghee is what you can call a healing food. It is light and digests easily, and helps balance all three doshas of the body (Vata, Pitta and Kapha).   Vegetable tikkis with mint chutney   Vegetable tikkis are delicious and contain all goodness of vegetables, making them a healthy dinner option. You can use chickpea flour or oats flour to bind the tikkis.   Rice gruel with cooked mung and coconut chutney   This is a traditional dinner in many Indian homes, especially in the state of Kerala. Rice gruel accompanied with cooked mung and coconut chutney has the right balance of all nutrients and is very healthy to consume during dinner.   According to Ayurveda, nighttime is dominated by Kapha. Therefore, your dinner should include food items that can balance Kapha, instead of increasing it. You can look for low-carb, protein-rich dinner options, and avoid food containing sugar. Also, focus on the food as you consume it, and ensure that you do not overeat.   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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Sexual Health Foods in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, sex is one of the three main pillars of health after food and sleep. Apart from playing an important role in solidifying the relationship between two individuals, sex is also important for your overall  health and wellness. However, low sexual health is one of the most common health issues many people face today.   People who recovered from COVID-19 seem to have low sexual health and libido as one of the aftereffects. Food habits, lifestyle, stress and other associated factors can also affect your sexual health.   Discussing about sexual health or visiting a doctor is often considered shameful though it is as important as your physical and mental health. So most probably, you will look forward to having supplements to boost libido.   However, Ayurveda gives you a better choice. Instead of running behind supplements, try having food that enhances digestion (Agni) so that your body will be able to absorb all the nutrients from the food itself. You can try these   5 Best Foods for Sexual Health     Pomegranate Consuming pomegranate on a daily basis helps improve libido and the quality of reproductive fluids. It is a great food option for women who are trying to conceive because consuming pomegranate helps thicken the uterine lining and improves blood flow to the uterus. Polyphenols present in the fruit also relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the brain and heart.   Barley Soup Ayurveda suggests barley soup to be one of the best dinner options for the fact that it is packed with nutrients and is easy to digest. Another health benefit it offers is that the soup helps boost blood circulation to genital organs and also helps in better erection in men. Barley has nitric oxide and arginine – the compounds that help improve erection.   Dates Dates are a natural food that helps improve male sexual health and fertility. Consuming dates helps improve sperm quality and count. As it is a natural stimulant, dates help cure sexual health related issues.   Black gram soup with ghee and rock sugar Caraka Samhita, the ancient Sanskrit text on Ayurveda suggests a medicinal recipe of black gram soup made with ghee and rock sugar to help improve libido. Black gram helps improve sperm count and motility. However, this food is not recommended for people with excessive heat in their body (high pitta people).   Moringa Moringa is rich in nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, and amino acids, providing numerous benefits for sexual health.  Ayurveda mentions moringa as Shukrakrit Param, as it is the best food for improving sperm and ovum quality. Consuming moringa leaves and drumsticks improve your fertility and better your chances of conceiving. When it comes to nurturing your sexual health, the key is to make smart choices in your diet. Incorporating the above-mentioned  foods for sexual health recommended by Ayurveda help improve your libido.    You can join my six-month conception program or men’s health program for the treatment of issues related to sexual health and fertility by booking a consultation with me.   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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Constipation Remedies in Ayurveda

“Doctor, I am doing everything, but I am not losing weight”.  “I have constant headache for no reason, don’t know why?”.  “I tried everything for my acne, but nothing works.” These are some common complaints I come across during consultations. One question I ask them all is “DO YOU HAVE CONSTIPATION?“     What is constipation?     When you have constipation, you pass less than three bowel movements in a week. You also have lumpy hard stools and have to strain to pass stools. Also, you have a constant feeling of incomplete emptying after passing stools.   Our stool constitutes waste, not just from our food, but also from physiological processes that include stercobilin, bacteria, dead cells, etc. If you are not defecating every day, a part of these is reabsorbed, which causes toxin buildup in our body.   According to Ayurveda, all diseases are caused due to an imbalance in digestion (Agni). Ayurveda quotes the same reason for constipation.   Even a single day of not passing bowel movements is not advised for gut health. For good health, good Agni, good skin and good hair, never let a single day pass without defecating.   Remedies for constipation     Ayurveda suggests a few remedies for constipation.       Lifestyle hacks     Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.  Exercise regularly for good Agni as well as relief from constipation. Your stress levels can affect your digestion. So, always try to keep stress under control. Prolonged use of over-the-counter laxatives can eventually dry up your intestinal mucosa. So stay away from them.       Food     Have 5- 6 soaked prunes first thing in the morning. Also, drink the water in which you soaked it. Consuming soaked black raisins also helps with constipation. Reduce the consumption of drying foods, like raw salads, chicken, etc. Add cooked vegetables to your diet religiously. Dry ginger is a mild laxative. Drink a glass of warm dry ginger water in the morning. Include good fats, such as ghee, in your diet. Warm milk with half a teaspoon of ghee or castor oil and consume. For kids, give them a glass of almond milk with a teaspoon of ghee added to it to drink before they go to bed.     Ayurvedic herbs   According to Ayurveda, there are three types of biophysical energies in our body ‚Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Ayurveda suggests remedies for constipation, based on body type.   If you have heat in your body (Pitta body), consume 2 teaspoons of Avipatti Churna before going to bed. If your body is dry (Vata), you can try 1 tablespoon of castor oil before bed. If your body is Kapha type with a tendency to put on weight, you can try 1 tablespoon of Triphala with warm water before going to bed. However, do not overconsume Triphala.   The Ayurvedic medicines mentioned are for temporary relief only. You may need to correct your digestion with the food that suits your body type to ensure you say bye to constipation forever.   If your constipation symptoms are chronic and beyond your control, consult an Ayurvedic doctor and fix it as soon as possible.   You can join our Health Programs for mind and body detox.  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. You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  … Continue reading Constipation Remedies in Ayurveda

Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday

According to Ayurveda, eating too many fruit is bad for you. You must limit your fruit consumption.   I’ve previously discussed Amla, grapes, and pomegranate, and how all of these fruits are extremely beneficial to us in a variety of ways.   Today, I’d like to introduce you to a fruit that is not only healthy, but also does not increase any of the three Doshas.   It is remarkably easy to digest, and anyone can consume it without regard for how it affects digestion or whether it is hot or cold.   Ripe Plum is the name of that fruit. The one that is very ripe and sweet, but not sour. It is a magical fruit that is suitable for everyone. In Ayurveda, plums have several health benefits depends on their properties, which were considered to cool, hydrate, and detoxify. Here’s a closer look at the Ayurvedic benefits of plums:    Balancing Doshas   Plums are good for balancing Vata dosha due to their cooling and hydrating nature. The cooling effectiveness of plum can balance Pitta dosha which is related with heat and inflammation. You can consume plums, due to their light and slightly acidic nature, to avoid the Kapha if you have excess mucus.       2.  Digestive Health   Plums are rich in dietary fiber; consequently, this helps in healthy digestion and regular bowel movement. Plums helps in promoting gut health. The natural laxative properties of plums helps in detoxifying the body  by flushing out toxins through digestive system        3.  Rich in Nutrients   Plums contain different kinds of antioxidants such as vitamin C and polyphenols, which fight off oxidative stress for overall health. They contain vital vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and iron, all of which participate in numerous functions of the body.       4. Skin Health   Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help in healthy skin; they help in hydration and reduce oxidative damage. They can be useful in fostering good, glowing skin.      5.   Immunity   The vitamin C content of plums strengthens the  immune system, thereby increasing its capacity to fight against infections and diseases     How to Eat   The fresh plum can be consumed as a snack, added in salads, or blended together in smoothies. The fresh juice of plum is refreshing and hydrating, but since it contains natural sugar, it should be consumed in moderation. The important thing is, you don’t overdo it.   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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            … Continue reading Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday

Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?

You might have seen many sources in the internet suggesting fruits for breakfast as part of a healthy diet. But Ayurveda has a different opinion.     Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?       #1  Mornings are cold, dewy, and moist   Fruits are cold, moist and slimy as well. What is cold, moist and slimy in our body? Kapha!   #2   Fruits are sweet, heavy and cold.   What is sweet, heavy and cold in our body? Kapha!   #3   6am to 10am is Kapha Kala   This is the time Kapha is at its peak – think excessive mucous, blocked nose, runny nose, and all upper respiratory tract symptoms.   #4 The Sun has just risen   Our digestive fire mimics the Sun; however, we do not have sharp digestion in the mornings.  Hence we may not be able to digest cold, sweet, heavy foods at this time.   Then what is a good breakfast?   Anything warm, light and freshly cooked. Example, oatmeal, porridges, rice or chickpea flour, pancakes, stewed apples, green gram pancakes etc. These are not only light but also easy to digest.   When is the best time to have fruits?   Between 10am to 4pm (Pitta Kala) before or after a meal, but not with a meal. Trust me, if you do this, your gut will thank you!       Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and disease-free life.   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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

You can eat anything if..

You can eat anything if.. You exercise everyday You have good Agni (digestive fire) You eat food added with good fats regularly You have good body strength You are a child! Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, healthy and disease-free life. 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

I Tried Intermittent Fasting For A Month And Surprised By The Results

I have always been that morning person with a set routine: wake up early, read a newspaper, go for a run, and then to work…