Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Digestive Problems

Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, places great emphasis on digestive care.This practice revolves around maintaining optimal digestion, as it is considered fundamental to good health. Central to Ayurvedic principles is the concept of “Agni,” or digestive fire, which plays a pivotal role in overall well-being.

To nurture healthy digestion, Ayurveda advises aligning one’s diet with their constitution (Prakriti) and digestive capacity (Agni), selecting foods that balance the doshas, and avoiding incompatible food combinations. Digestive disorders occur when there are disruptions in the normal functioning of our stomach and digestion. These issues are common and affect many people. The stomach is constantly exposed to various germs and external substances. Its intricate parts collaborate to produce enzymes, which play a crucial role in breaking down the food we consume. It’s typical for almost everyone to experience occasional tummy problems.

Common Digestive Diseases:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
• GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease ( GERD )
• Celiac Disease
• Crohn’s Disease
• GallStones
• Ulcerative colitis ( UC )

Digestive Problems Ayurvedic Treatment: Causes

Ayurveda attributes digestive disorders to a combination of factors, including:

1. Imbalance of Doshas 
2. Toxic Buildup (Ama)
3. Emotional Factors
4. Weak Digestive Fire ( Agni )

Benefits of  Ayurvedic Treatment for  Digestive Problems

Ayurvedic treatment for digestive disorders encompasses a holistic approach, incorporating dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and Panchakarma treatments. Panchakarma therapies are particularly instrumental in addressing digestive issues. Depending on the specific imbalance, treatment may vary: for instance, Vata imbalances may be addressed with warm, nourishing foods and spices, while Pitta imbalances may necessitate cooling, soothing foods and herbs. Likewise, Kapha imbalances may benefit from stimulating and invigorating foods and activities.

Ayurvedic Dietary Guidelines

       In Ayurveda, optimal health hinges significantly on the strength of one’s digestion, governed by the agni, or digestive fire. When agni is robust, it fosters the abundance of ojas, the vital life essence, throughout the mind and body. Conversely, weak digestion leads to the accumulation of ama, toxins, within the digestive tract.

Ayurvedic Diet Principles:

• Don’t suppress appetite
• Eat whenever you feel appetite
• Eat two times a day
• Don’t eat
• Eat food in their natural form
• Eat food within 48 minutes after cooking
• Eat food cooked at home
• Eat food with calm mind

Ayurvedic Diet Plan

1. Eat fresh whole foods : fresh and whole foods are rich in prana or life force
2. Eat seasonally : Ayurveda advises to eat food seasonally that helps to tune the body with nature. This means eating warm cooked foods in winter and raw, cool foods in summer.
3. Mindful eating : Ayurveda places a significant role on mindful eating, which involves being fully present and attentive to the flavours, textures, and aromas of the food you consume. By engaging all your senses during meals, you can enhance digestion and nutrient absorption.
4. Eat in moderation : Ayurveda promotes eating in moderation means avoiding overeating and undereating. It’s  important to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full.
5. Eat for your dosha : 

• Vata – warm , moist , heavy food
• Pitha – cool , refreshing  and mild foods
• Kapha – light ,  dry and warmed foods

Food to Include :

•  Whole foods, including abundant fresh, organic produce, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and, if tolerated, dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, and soft cheeses like paneer.
•  Fruits and vegetables, often consumed cooked, are valued not only for their nutritional content but also for their natural cleansing properties. 
•  Reducing meat intake while favouring lighter protein sources such as fish and chicken, as they are easier to digest compared to heavier proteins like red meat.

In Ayurveda, taste holds significant importance in selecting foods as different tastes have varying effects on the doshas. There are six tastes recognized: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent, and pungent. Each taste has a distinct impact on the balance of the doshas within the body.

Food to Avoid :

• Whole foods foster the production of ojas, while heavily processed, frozen, canned, and additive-laden foods, as well as those high in sugar, pose challenges for efficient nutrient absorption. 
• This also applies to leftovers. Hence, it’s advisable to steer clear of such “junk foods” .
•  It’s advisable to avoid consuming ice-cold foods and drinks as they can dampen the digestive fire, potentially leading to indigestion.
• Over cooked foods cause indigestion.
• Raw meat should be avoided.

Ayurveda Also Recommends:

1. Mindful Eating
2. Eat Three Meals A Day
3. Make Lunch as Biggest Meal
4. Dinner should be Light
5. Eat in Calm , Settled Atmosphere
6. Eat a Balanced Amount
7. Stay Hydrated

Digestive Problems Ayurvedic Treatment at Dheemahi Ayurveda: 

Dheemahi Ayurveda Village is committed to delivering authentic and highly effective Ayurvedic treatments, employing a 100% result-oriented approach. With a heritage spanning five generations, we stand as one of the premier destinations for Ayurvedic digestive disorder treatment in Kerala, rooted deeply in time-tested Ayurvedic knowledge.

Our expert team of doctors places your health and well-being at the forefront, offering personalised consultations and continuous follow-ups throughout your journey with us. Emphasising holistic health, our dedicated professionals guide you towards complete well-being and vitality. During your treatment period, adhering to a healthy daily routine further enhances results and contributes to your overall health. At Dheemahi Ayurveda, we are committed to providing an authentic and rejuvenating Ayurvedic experience.