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Digestion from the view of Ayurveda
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Published on 10/14/24
(Updated on 07/24/25)
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Digestion from the view of Ayurveda

Written by
Dr. Ayush Varma
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
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Digestion from the view of Ayurveda

In Ayurveda we believe that almost all diseases are directly or indirectly related to disturbed digestion.

Digestion is important for breaking down food into nutrients, which your body uses for energy, growth, and cell repair. In Ayurveda, the complete digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food nutrients create a healthy body.

Complete wellness is not only physical digestion in the stomach but mental digestion as well. The proper, healthy digestion is a key function required for our overall well-being.

The third chakra regulates and stimulates all the activities in our body including the digestive system. The problem in the digestive system is an imbalance in the third chakra, in Pitta dosha and digestive fire – in Ayurveda it’s called “Agni”.

The goal of Ayurveda is harmonising and balancing the energies in our body. As food is fuel for the physical body and mind, a little change in your diet can make big changes in your life – you are what you eat.

In Ayurveda we believe that digestive process goes in three stages and it takes 36 days to complete the full digestive process:

Stage one – timing is about 1,5-2 hours – takes place in the mouth and upper stomach. At this stage, saliva mixes with food to make it moist, foamy, and oily so the food can be well digested – that’s why it is important to eat slowly. Imbalance in this stage is associated with Kapha dosha.

The second stage takes about 2-3 hours and takes place in the lower stomach and small intestine. Pancreatic secretions further break down the food. Imbalance at this stage, such as heartburn and acid reflux, are associated with Pitta dosha.

Stage three – the process takes 1,5-2 hours – takes place in the large intestine (colon). Digestion problems of the third stage, such as bloating and gas, are associated with Vata dosha.

Cary Gastroenterology Associates | Getting to Know Your Digestive…

What Causes Digestion issues?

The food you eat influences your body’s digestive processes and overall wellness. As far as digestive disorders go, they happen because of not eating according to ones body type, not eating on time or according to the appetite, eating the wrong combinations of foods at the wrong time or eating heavy, spicy, fried food immediately followed by soda or milkshake. Here are a few examples of mindless eating that may lead to digestive issues.

  • Eating spicy, fried foods, such as burgers, pizza, chips, French fries, etc.
  • Using too many spices, garlic, clove, and chilly in your cooking or no spices at all.
  • Consuming baked items and fermented foods, such as dosa, idli, uttapam, etc regularly
  • Consuming tea/coffee in excess quantities, usually over 2 cups a day.
  • Inadequate water intake.

Lifestyle

No matter how nutritious or clean your diet is, it means nothing if you do not engage in physical activities and take enough rest in a day. The following may cause digestive issues.

  • Working long hours without rest.
  • Lying down in bed or settling in your chair at work immediately after meals
  • Inadequate sleep
  • Skipping meals
  • Overeating or eating whether the previous meal is fully digested.

What’s a List of Digestion Diseases?

Some Common Joint Pain Diseases Include:

                                                                       

Constipation                          Hyperacidity                       Appendicitis 

                                

Colon Polyps                      Intestinal worms

Digestive Images – Browse 163,779 Stock Photos, Vectors, and Video | Adobe  Stock

How Ayurveda Can Help Digestion?

Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic healing, provides effective solutions for promoting optimal digestion. By addressing the root cause of digestive issues, Ayurveda tailors remedies and dietary recommendations to an individual’s unique constitution. Herbal formulations and natural therapies are employed to balance digestive functions, aiding in the assimilation of nutrients and elimination of toxins. Ayurvedic practices emphasize mindful eating, personalized nutrition plans, and lifestyle adjustments to foster a healthy digestive system. This integrative approach not only alleviates current digestive concerns but also promotes long-term well-being, ensuring a harmonious balance for a healthier life

Emotions that Block

Negative emotions and thoughts overlap us with a thick layer, which interferes to perceive and “taste” life. Food – is the ability to process, digest the situation. If there are problems with the digestive system, it indicates that there are problems in assimilating life.

Free Digestive health visualization Image | Download at StockCake

Ways to Prevent Digestion problems According to Ayurveda

Mind-Body Practices: Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and deep breathing to promote overall well-being.

Yoga Asanas: Practice yoga postures specifically designed to strengthen digestion, increase appetite and allow good elimination of urine and stools. Pawanmuktasan, Balasan, Vajrasan, Shalabhasan, Gomukhasan, Ardha matstyendrasan are extremely useful if practised regularly.

Balanced Diet: Emphasize a diet rich in warming, nourishing foods to pacify Vata and support bone health.

Herbal Support: Integrate Ayurvedic herbs like ginger, turmeric, rock salt, fennel, coriander, triphala, trikatu etc .

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Ayurvedic Wellness for Digestion at Alveda

Experience optimal digestive health with Ayurvedic wellness at Alveda. Our tailored solutions focus on enhancing digestion through natural remedies and personalized dietary plans. Alveda’s Ayurvedic approach addresses digestive issues by balancing your unique constitution, promoting overall well-being. We offer holistic lifestyle guidance, including mindful eating practices and daily routines, to support a healthy digestive system. Choose Alveda for a harmonious blend of traditional wisdom and personalized care, ensuring your digestive well-being for a balanced and vibrant life.

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

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Questions from users
What are some Ayurvedic tips for improving digestion if I have a Pitta dosha imbalance?
Samuel
52 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
52 days ago
To manage Pitta imbalance, focus on cool, sweet, and non-acidic foods. Eat more fruits like melons and pears, and avoid spicy and fried foods. Drink plenty of water to keep cool, and consider practicing calming activities like yoga. Try to eat at regular times to support Agni. It’s a holistic approach, so lifestyle matters too!
What are some Ayurvedic tips to improve digestion based on your body type?
John
52 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
52 days ago
For improving digestion based on your body type, you gotta consider your dosha balance. - If you're Vata, focus on warming, grounding foods like soups and stews. Avoid raw, cold foods. - Pitta types should favor cooling foods, like cucumbers and melons. Avoid spicy or salty stuff. - Kaphas can benefit from lighter, spicy foods to spark up digestion. Limit heavy and oily foods. Remember, this is just a starting point. It's best to get a full picture of your dosha balance:)
What are some good food combinations to avoid digestive issues according to Ayurvedic principles?
Michael
38 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
37 days ago
Oh, Ayurveda has a lot to say about food combos! Try to avoid eating fruits with dairy, as this can mess with your Agni. Another tip is keeping proteins like beans and meat separate from dairy. This can help prevent digestive fire imbalances and keep your system happy. Eat melons alone, too. It's all about keeping that digestive balance!
How can I incorporate Ayurvedic principles into my daily diet for better digestion?
Allison
33 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
32 days ago
You can start by eating mindfully - savor every bite and pay attention, this helps your agni, or digestive fire. Balancing your meals with your dosha in mind can also do wonders, like eating warming foods for Vata or light foods if you're Kapha. Ginger tea may helps too, for boosting digestion! If you’re unsure about your dosha, maybe have a quick chat with a practitioner!
How can I apply the Ayurvedic approach to improve my digestion if I have frequent heartburn?
Logan
28 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
26 days ago
For heartburn, Ayurveda often focuses on balancing the Pitta dosha since it involves excess heat and acidity. Try adding cooling foods like cucumber and melon, avoid spicy or acidic foods, and include herbs like coriander. Also, sipping fennel tea might help. Eating mindfully and not rushing meals is key too. If it persists, might be good to consult a practitioner for personalized advice!
How can I create a personalized dietary plan based on my Pitta dosha for better digestion?
Charles
23 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
21 days ago
To create a Pitta-friendly diet for better digestion, focus on cooling, calming, and hydrating foods. So think of fruits like melons, grapes, and apples. Avoid spicy, oily, and fried foods that can increase Pitta. Incorporate herbs like coriander and fennel to balance the heat. Eating slowly and mindfully can also help, supporting both physical and mental digestion—just like we mentioned!
What are some examples of herbal formulations used in Ayurvedic practices for digestion?
William
18 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
16 days ago
Some great Ayurvedic herbal formulations for digestion includes Triphala, which balances all doshas and helps with digestive fire, and Trikatu, a blend of black pepper, ginger, and long pepper that boosts agni. Amalaki is also fantastic for digestion. They address issues by balancing your doshas and enhancing your digestive fire! Remember, it's always good to consult with a practioner before trying new things :)
What are some effective ways to improve digestion if I'm already eating healthy?
Noah
13 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
11 days ago
If you're already eating healthy but want to boost digestion, try eating slowly and mindfully—pay attention to your food! Include ginger or cumin in your meals to spark your agni or digestive fire. Managing stress and emotions is super important too, since they can affect digestion. A regular daily routine and good sleep also helps balance everything out.
How can I tell if my digestion problems are related to an imbalance in my third chakra?
Anna
7 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
6 days ago
Ah, interesting question! Digestion problems might connect to the third chakra, known as the Solar Plexus Chakra, which is linked to personal power and confidence. If you're feeling digestion issues along with low self-esteem or powerlessness, this could be a sign. Ayurveda suggests that supporting the agni (digestive fire) with warming foods and spices can help. You might want to explore balancing your personal energy along with diet changes too!
What are some specific mindful eating practices I can start using right away?
Amelia
2 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
1 day ago
To start mindful eating, try focusing on your meal, really savor each bite, and chew slowly. Pay attention to textures, flavors, and how the food makes you feel. Also, try eating in a calm environment, without distractions like phones or TV. These can help connect you more with what you're eating and how your body responds.
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