THE AYURVEDIC DIET
Ayurveda, meaning "the science of life", originated in India as a holistic approach to create balance within the mind and body by being more aligned with nature, its components and it is rhythm. In this culture there is a belief that the disease is the result of an imbalance of the doshas: vata, pitta and kapha.
Doshas? The doshas are the physiological types that represent the elements of nature and that Ayurveda teaches that each human being has a combination or another of them. The three different types are based on the five elements of nature: ether - or space - fire, air, water and earth. Vata corresponds to the air, and may indicate an unstable nervous system, inconsistent behavior and carelessness. Pitta represents fire, and generally means a strong personality, leadership qualities and intense emotions. Kapha represents mainly water, exhibited in a slow and constant behavior and a strong loyalty. Although combinations are common, there is usually a dominant dosha. According to this ayurveda when eating according to the type of dosha that corresponds to each person can restore balance and good health.
The Ayurvedic diet focuses on six basic flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, spicy and astringent. The Ayurvedic approach generally includes a combination of yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, mantras, cleansing and skin massages with specific oils. Foods to include according to your dosha:
Vata Types
- Hot foods, cooked, nutritious and easily digested
- Fruit (mainly berries)
- Small beans · Rice · Nuts · Dairy
Pitta types
- Cold, raw or lightly cooked foods
- Watery and sweet fruits and vegetables (cherry, mango, cucumber, melon, avocado)
- Dark vegetable salads (arugula, dandelion, kale)
Kapha Types
- light foods , hot and spicy
- Sour and bitter greens
- Tea · Spices (black pepper, ginger, cumin, chili)
Meals to avoid: ·
- Types of Vata: cold and non-digestible foods
- Types of Pitta: food overexposed to heat and light, fried foods and spicy foods
- Types of Kapha: fatty foods and processed sugar
The pros of this philosophy:
- Promotes bioindividuality
- Focuses on prevention
- Considers lifestyle and personal care
- Is aligned with the seasons
- Has a wide range of foods that can be consumed
Cons:
- The scientific evidence that shows the effectiveness of Ayurvedic healing techniques is limited
- Diet may be limiting for some people
In my personal opinion and based only on my experience as a practitioner and as a Health Coach, I consider that it is one of the most complete and balanced philosophies that exists, since it includes all the components of nature, respects its rhythms, adapts to each person according to the predominance of their doshas, tc. Dzprohibidosdz foods do not exist (although as in all disciplines there are those who are more extreme and who less). For me it is a lifestyle that includes routines and a way of seeing life in a natural and fluid way with nature. The physical and spiritual support given by ayurveda is unique, and in terms of food it is one of the most balanced that exists. If you asked me who would recommend it, my answer depends on the casuistry of each person, if you have any disease, if not, if you want to lose weight, but. But of course I see this philosophy of life totally indicated to people who care about their physical, mental and spiritual health. A lifestyle that prevents diseases, safe, friendly with the environment and with ourselves. And what I like the most about Ayurveda is that it teaches us to know our own organism and gives us tools to heal, take care of and love each other more.
Ruth Brigandi