Ayurveda has been India's natural system of medicine for more than 5,000 years. Ayurveda holds that illnesses are really symptoms of imbalances. These imbalances occur in mind, body and spirit and are governed by the connection between an individual's lifestyle choices and his biological makeup. Certain foods complement this connection, while others promote health degradation.
Eating Constitution
Ayurveda medicine establishes the best diet for an individual based on his unique mind-body constitution. This constitution, which links personality and biological makeup, is divided into three categories: vata, pitta and kapha. These categories are called doshas and their purpose is to provide a path toward harmony with nature, natural laws and rhythms. Ayurvedic healers believe that abiding by an individual's dosha will help the body self-heal and regulate into a balanced state.
Pitta
The pitta dosha governs the metabolic processes of the body. Individuals with pitta as their main dosha are generally energetic and hot-tempered, according to the Chopra Center. Pitta requires foods that calm and cool its fiery nature to keep it in balance. All sweeteners, except molasses and honey, olive, sunflower and coconut oils, coriander, cilantro, cardamom, saffron, and fennel are cooling pitta foods. Potatoes, pumpkin, cucumbers, zucchini, melons, grapes, mangoes, pineapple and cherries are also beneficial.
Vata
Vata influences the other doshas due to its role of governing the body's nervous system. Those with a dominant vata dosha have sensitive digestive systems, are creative and generally love new experiences. Vata requires foods that stabilize and calm the nervous system. Ghee and extra virgin olive oil, low-fat dairy products, rice and wheat and all sweeteners stabilize vata. Cooked asparagus, beets, carrots and bananas, plums, berries, figs, papaya and rhubarb support the vata constitution.
Kapha
Kapha supports body structure and governs muscles, bones and fat. Kapha dosha characteristics include a strong build, thick hair, slow digestion and supportive nature. Kapha is prone to fluid retention and weight gain and should avoid artificial sweeteners and foods that produce phlegm. All beans, except soybeans, pungent spices such as in pepper, cayenne and ginger stimulate healthy kapha digestion. Apples, pears and apricots, non-sweet veggies and barley, buckwheat and rye grains are also beneficial.
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