The pitta dosha is one of three constitution types found in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Thought to be composed of the fire and water elements, pitta types tend to be slender in the body with coppery, yellowish or reddish complexions. According to the tenets of Ayurveda, pitta types are advised to maintain their well-being by favoring and restricting certain foods in the diet.
Ayurvedic Medicine
The University of Maryland Medical Center records Ayurveda as one of the oldest healing sciences. According to traditional Ayurvedic philosophy, each individual embodies specific physical and psychological characteristics depending on his makeup of the three doshas: kapha, pitta and vata. While everyone is believed to have some amount of each dosha, pitta types are considered dominant in the elements of fire and water, and tend to have a strong metabolism and digestion.
Recommended Foods
The Medicine Buddha Healing Center website recommends an extensive diet for pitta types, including apples, apricots, avocados, berries, figs, dates, coconut, limes, mangoes, pears, plums, artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cilantro, cucumber, kale, lettuce, leek, cooked mushrooms, rutabaga, squash, unsalted butter, soft cheese, whole milk, adzuki beans, black beans, black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, flour, split peas, buffalo, chicken, egg whites, fish, benison, amaranth, barley, cereals, couscous, granola, oat bran, pasta, tapioca, wheat, basmati rice and sprouted wheat bread. Pitta types are also generally advised to favor beverages such as almond milk, aloe vera juice, apple juice, grape juice, pomegranate juice, rice milk and herbal teas made from raspberry, peppermint, dandelion, comfrey, burdock, chamomile and licorice.
Foods to Avoid
Foods containing refined sugar and grains, such as white bread, white rice and soft drinks, are discouraged for pitta types. Excessively cooling foods such as frozen meals, canned foods, ice cream and other ice-cold beverages are also not recommended for pitta types. Alternatively, excessively heating foods, such as hot drinks, chili peppers, garlic and hot spices, are also avoided. For best results, limit your intake of egg yolks, nuts, sour foods, alcohol, caffeine, honey, mushrooms and eggplant.
Safety Concerns
Despite its considerable history, many Western doctors remain dubious of Ayurveda’s ability to treat all conditions. If you are experiencing unpleasant symptoms or a negative health condition, you can seek a medical professional first and then follow up with an Ayurveda practitioner as desired. Talk to your doctor or dietician before making any drastic changes in your diet.
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