Ayurveda, an ancient system of healing, uses herbal remedies and individualized diets to promote optimum health. Ayurvedic diets are based on an individual's dominant dosha, or energy type. According to Ayurvedic medicine, disease and even psychological disorders are the result of imbalances between the doshas. To determine your ideal Ayurvedic diet, you must identify your dominant dosha and choose appropriate foods to keep it in balance.
Kapha Dosha
Kapha energy controls bodily functions that relate to growth. Kapha is associated with the elements of water and earth and is responsible for transporting water throughout the body and moisturizing the skin. According to the Chopra Center, kapha types generally have a large, strong build, thick hair, smooth skin and excellent stamina. They are naturally calm, patient, loyal and supportive. They may also have a slower metabolism than other people with other doshas.
Kapha Imbalances
When kapha energy is out of balance, it can lead to lethargy, stubbornness and overeating, notes Yoga Journal. Kapha types may gain weight, retain fluids, develop allergies and sleep excessively. They may also be prone to sinus problems, inflammation, asthma, diabetes and depression.
Kapha Dosha Diet Guidelines
To keep kapha in balance, eat foods that are light, dry and warm in order to counter kapha's heavy, oily nature. The Chopra Center recommends foods with pungent, astringent or bitter tastes. Avoid foods that are sweet, salty or sour.
Limit your consumption of dairy products. When necessary, use low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt, or ghee, which is a clarified butter. Avoid sweeteners, which can block sinuses and contribute to colds. You may use honey, but do not use it in cooking.
Eat light fruits such as apples, pears, pomegranates and apricots. Bananas, avocados, oranges and melons are too heavy for kapha types. Most vegetables are acceptable, but limit your intake of sweeter vegetables such as zucchini and tomatoes.
Reduce your consumption of red meat. You may eat white meat chicken, turkey, seafood and eggs. One day per week, try a liquid fast consisting of fresh juices and pureed vegetable soups.
Food Combinations
In Ayurveda, certain food combinations are considered incompatible and may lead to disease, reports the Ayurvedic Institute. Ayurveda teaches that different foods have different energies and effects on the body; combining incompatible foods may interfere with digestion and increase toxins. Avoid consuming milk with fruits or sour foods. In general, eat fruits by themselves. Avoid combining raw foods with cooked foods or fresh foods with leftovers.
Kapha Dosha Lifestyle Guidelines
Lifestyle changes may also help keep kapha in balance. Follow a regular sleep schedule---wake up before 6 am every day and avoid naps. Kapha types are sensitive to cold, so try to stay warm by using heating pads or sunlamps in cold environments. Exercise regularly and perform a daily dry massage to improve circulation.
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