How Can Ahara Amount Be Checked in Ayurveda for Better Health?

Question

Lately, I have been struggling with my eating habits. Sometimes I overeat and feel sluggish, and other times I eat too little and feel weak. I came across the concept of ahara amount check in Ayurveda, which suggests that the right quantity of food is important for maintaining health. But I don’t fully understand how it works.

From what I read, ahara amount check is about eating based on your digestive capacity, not just your hunger level. Some sources say you should eat only until your stomach is 75% full, while others say Ayurveda recommends using the concept of Anjali (cupped hands) to measure food intake.

I want to know how to properly practice ahara amount check in daily life. Should I eat based on portion size, my body weight, or how I feel after a meal? Also, how does it vary for different body types (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)?

If anyone here follows ahara amount check principles, please share your experience. Did it help with digestion, energy levels, or weight management? And how do I know if I’m eating too much or too little according to Ayurveda?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, the concept of ahara amount check is indeed centered around eating according to your digestive capacity rather than strict portion sizes or hunger alone. The general guideline is to fill your stomach to about 75% capacity, leaving 25% for space, which allows room for proper digestion. The idea behind this is to avoid overeating and under-eating, both of which can disrupt digestion. The Anjali method, using your cupped hands to measure the amount of food, is a practical way to estimate the portion size, particularly for those with varying digestive capacities. For Vata types, smaller, more frequent meals are recommended, while Pitta types can tolerate larger meals, and Kapha types should focus on smaller portions to avoid sluggish digestion. Listening to your body’s signals, such as feeling satisfied rather than full or hungry, can help you gauge the right amount. Following this practice can improve digestion, energy levels, and help manage weight. It may take some time to tune into your body’s rhythms, but once you do, it can lead to a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.

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