The foods we consume have an impact on both the physical body as well as on one’s mental well-being. Through Ayurveda, if we better understand our constitution, both physical and mental, we can adjust our diet to better nourish the body and the mind by eliminating certain types of food, reducing others and increasing others. The way food is prepared also impacts on its value, as well as whether it is eaten as solids or liquids.
In broad terms, foods such as red meat, refined sugar, wheat and deep-fried snacks are difficult to digest and are best eliminated from the diet. These types of food decrease the digestive fire of the body. Being heavy to digest, these types of food aggravate the air and fire elements of the body, resulting in the production of mucous and toxins within the body.
White meats such as chicken and fish are great substitutes. There are several wheat-free alternatives available on the market thesedays such as corn-based pasta, spelt flour-based chapattis and bread which can be made from wheat and gluten-free flour. Jaggery, although not common in the West, is a wonderful, natural replacement for refined sugar, as is unrefined raw cane sugar.
On the whole, it is best to avoid sour foods such as tomatoes, kiwi and pineapples, and sour flavourings such as tamarind. Sour foods tend to unnecessarily increase fire in the body and also produce excessive quantities of toxins. Furthermore, fermented foods such as yoghurt and cheese also aggravate pitta in the intestines and so should be avoided. For similar reasons, cut back on chillies and hot spices. Use black pepper as a substitute for that peppery taste.
Eliminate all convenience foods, tinned foods and micro-waving foods. Aside from all the additives found in such foods, they lack purity and prana (life force).
Herbal drinks are generally better for the body, although caffeinated drinks in moderation are okay. Avoid pre-prepared fruit and vegetable juices, ice-cold foods and drinks.
It must be remembered that this is a broad look at the effects of various types of food on the general body. In order to understand what type of food is suitable for what body type, it is imperative to consult an ayurvedic practitioner.
For more on the Ayurvedic diet guide, stay linked to this blog.
