Ayurveda Food Tips for Good Health!

Ayurveda says dis-ease is caused by dietary choices. Here are some tips for eating that harness the power of Ayurveda!
  • Harness the power of nature’s wisdom. Eat fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs that are seasonal.
  • Understand your body type. Each person has a unique constitution. Know what works best for you to bring optimal balance in your body.
  • Eat in proper quantities, neither too much or too little. The Ayurveda ratio for proper digestion is 1/3 food, 1/3 liquid, and 1/3 empty space.
  • Allow 4 to 6 hours between meals. You should have a feeling of hunger before eating. Don’t fall into the traps of mindless eating, such as eating when you’re stressed or bored and not actually hungry.
  • Chew food slowly with concentration, and enjoy every bite. Ayurveda recommends chewing each bite 30 to 50 times before swallowing to allow the enzymes in your saliva to break down food before it goes to your stomach to aid in digestion. For example, this concept is why we soak lentils and sprout mung beans—it’s to break down the enzyme inhibitors and phytates that are naturally occurring in legumes and some vegetables that are harder to digest.
  • Enjoy meals at the table without distractions and interruptions. Avoid phones at the table and don’t have the TV on in the background. Focus on savoring the meal and connecting with your family and loved ones.
  • A good balanced meal has all the six tastes: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent, Bitter and Astringent. If these flavors are present in one meal, then we feel very satisfied with our meal, and it helps alleviate cravings. Indian homes are known for serving colorful arrays—many different types of foods on one plate and many other dishes—to achieve a fully balanced meal.
  • While you are eating, Ayurveda recommends not drinking a lot of water and not drinking cold water. Instead, if you need to drink water while eating, Ayurveda recommends sipping lukewarm water. Thisallows optimal digestion. The “fire” of digestion is called agni in Ayurveda, and dousing it with water would impede the digestion.
Healthy eating doesn’t mean bland. The prescription for Ayurveda is you must eat tasty food and have mental satisfaction after you finish a meal.