Ayurveda is a form of medicine practiced in India for approximately 5,000 years. The basis of Ayurveda is that balancing the three energy types, or doshas, can help prevent and reverse disease. Ayurveda primarily utilizes herbs, exercises, meditations, diet and body cleansing to restore balance to doshas. During pregnancy, a specific diet is recommended by practitioners of Ayurveda for optimal health and the development of a "perfect individual." Practitioners and followers of this type of medicine believe that during pregnancy, everything that a mother is exposed to should work to nourish her and the baby and help balance the doshas.
Prior to Conception
When a couple is trying to conceive, it is recommended that both parents should eat what is known as a sattvic diet. In general, this type of diet includes foods that are fresh and nutritious. A sattvic diet includes a lot of fruit, rice, vegetables, beans and dairy. Meat is to be avoided as often as possible and intoxicating substances such as alcohol should be avoided as well. The foods contained in a sattvic diet are easily digestible as well. The male partner should follow a slightly modified form of this diet, adding more milk, rice and nuts.
First Three Months
The first trimester is a time of rapid growth and development, including the development of the nervous system. The Ayruvedic diet recommends that women in this stage of pregnancy eat a diet containing a lot of liquid. Milk, coconut water and juicy fruits are recommended during this time. During the second and third months, Ayurvedic herbs such as vidari and yashtimadhu are added to the milk because they are considered "life-building." Other herbs, such as brahmi, can be added to promote calmness and relaxation.
Months Four to Seven
During months four through seven, the Ayurvedic pregnancy diet consists largely of milk, rice, leafy vegetables and fruits. Ghee, or clarified butter, is also recommended. These foods are thought to help nourish the mother and the baby, encouraging proper fetal growth and development.
Last Two Months
Practitioners of Ayurveda encourage pregnant women to decrease intake of salt and fat during the final two months of pregnancy. During this time, herbs may be added to help decrease the chance of urinary tract infections, decrease swelling and calm the uterus. Certain preparations may be given, including Sukhaprasava Ghritham, to prepare for an easy delivery.
Considerations
The Ayurvedic pregnancy diet is a nutritious and healthy diet for most pregnant women. Consult with your health care professional if you are interested in following this type of diet during your pregnancy.
