Nutrition Online Ayurvedic Consultation — page 180

Hello Harshitha, What was your weight 4 years back and why did you start losing weight ? How is your appetite? Any digestive problems like diarrhoea, IBS or constipation? Any ongoing stress? Were you very sick? Do you suffer from worms regularly? Any relevant blood tests are done? All these parameters are necessary to understand why you aren’t gaining weight. Also what is your diet like & how is your sleep?

Acid reflux and ulcers are often signs of aggravated Pitta dosha in Ayurveda, leading to excess heat in the digestive system. To address this at the root, it's important to balance Pitta through diet, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies. Begin by avoiding spicy, sour, and acidic foods that can worsen Pitta, and instead focus on cooling, soothing foods such as cucumber, coconut water, and cooling herbs like coriander and fennel. Drinking Amla (Indian gooseberry) juice or Aloe vera juice daily can help heal ulcers and soothe the stomach lining. Avipattikar Churna before meals is excellent for reducing acid production and regulating digestion. For restless sleep, taking Shatavari or Guduchi can help balance Pitta and calm the mind, improving sleep quality. Additionally, try practicing Abhyanga (oil massage) with cooling oils like Coconut or Brahmi oil before bed, along with daily yoga or meditation to reduce stress, which can contribute to acid reflux. Long-term, following a Pitta-pacifying lifestyle with regular meals and a focus on cooling herbs and practices can reduce the need for antacids and restore digestive balance naturally.

Hello Yogesh, what is your current weight? And your BMR? Also give details of your digestive system, like appetite, stools etc. Do you have any other health issues?

In Ayurveda, understanding your body’s reaction to dairy and exploring suitable alternatives involves a holistic approach, considering your dosha and digestive strength, or agni. If you frequently experience digestive upset after consuming dairy, it may indicate a sensitivity or intolerance that could stem from an imbalance in your digestive fire or the properties of the dairy itself. Dairy products can be heavy and challenging to digest for some individuals, especially if your agni is weak or if you have a kapha imbalance. To better understand your body’s reaction, it may be beneficial to assess the type of dairy you’re consuming. For instance, some people tolerate fermented dairy products, such as yogurt or buttermilk, better than milk or cheese, as the fermentation process makes these products easier to digest. If you wish to explore alternatives to dairy, consider plant-based options like almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk, which tend to be lighter and easier on the digestive system. If you enjoy yogurt, look for non-dairy varieties made from coconut, almond, or soy, which can still provide probiotics for gut health without the digestive discomfort. To enhance digestion, you can incorporate warming spices like ginger or cardamom when consuming dairy products, as they can help improve your digestive process. Additionally, you might consider taking Ayurvedic formulations like triphala, which aids in digestion and detoxification; taking one teaspoon in warm water before bed can be beneficial. Another effective formulation is digestive herbal blends containing cumin, fennel, and coriander, which can be taken as a tea or in powder form to help support your digestive fire. You may also explore the use of hingvastak churna, a combination of spices including asafoetida, which is known to alleviate gas and bloating and can be taken before meals. For a more targeted approach, amritarishta, a traditional tonic, can support digestion and improve your overall gut health. By being mindful of your body’s signals and making these adjustments, you can find suitable alternatives and maintain digestive comfort. If the digestive upset continues, we can further explore your individual constitution and make more tailored recommendations for your diet and lifestyle.

Dear Narayan, Ayurveda offers several dietary guidelines and herbal supplements to support fitness goals, enhance workout performance, and promote recovery. Here’s a comprehensive approach: Dietary Guidelines Balanced Meals: Sattvic Foods: Include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to provide essential nutrients and energy. Protein Sources: Incorporate lean proteins such as legumes, lentils, dairy (if suitable), and plant-based proteins to support muscle repair. Pre-Workout Nutrition: Light, Easily Digestible Foods: Have a small meal or snack rich in carbohydrates, such as bananas, oatmeal, or smoothies, about 1-2 hours before exercising. Hydration: Drink water or herbal teas to stay hydrated before your workout. Post-Workout Nutrition: Replenish with Carbs and Protein: After workouts, consume a meal that includes both carbohydrates and protein to aid recovery (e.g., a smoothie with protein powder, fruits, and nut butter). Healthy Fats: Include sources like avocados and nuts to support overall health. Herbal Supplements Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): An adaptogen that helps reduce stress and improve endurance. It may enhance strength and muscle recovery. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in recovery. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Often used to support stamina and recovery, especially for those engaging in intense physical activity. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Enhances cognitive function and mental clarity, which can improve focus during workouts. Moringa (Moringa oleifera): Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, it can boost energy levels and support overall health.