Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
Incompatible Food Combinations How Do I Know What to Avoid
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Nutrition
Question #1452
273 days ago
228

Incompatible Food Combinations How Do I Know What to Avoid - #1452

Allison

been trying to improve my diet after reading a bit about Ayurveda and its teachings on food combinations. I’ve noticed that every time I eat a large meal that mixes dairy with fruits or eat heavy foods at night, my stomach feels really off – bloating, indigestion, and just feeling sluggish the next day. 😔 I’ve tried cutting down on processed foods, but I still have these issues. I heard that eating incompatible foods together is a big deal in Ayurveda, but I'm still confused about what exactly to avoid. For example, I love having a smoothie with yogurt and banana in the morning, but I read somewhere that it’s a bad combo. Can you explain what makes certain foods incompatible? And how strict should I be with these combinations? I want to feel better, but I’m not sure if I’m making the right food choices.

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
273 days ago
4.83

In Ayurveda, the concept of incompatible food combinations (Viruddha Ahara) is indeed significant, as certain foods together can disrupt digestion, create toxins (ama), and lead to discomfort like bloating, indigestion, and sluggishness. This occurs because each food has its own unique energy (virya), taste (rasa), and post-digestive effect (vipaka), and combining opposing qualities can confuse the digestive fire (Agni), impairing digestion. For instance, mixing dairy and fruit, such as yogurt and banana, is considered incompatible because fruit is usually quick to digest, while yogurt takes longer. The fermentation and heaviness of yogurt combined with the sweetness of banana can slow down digestion, causing bloating and ama formation.

To improve digestion, consider avoiding combinations like dairy with sour fruits, fruit with heavy proteins (like milk and meat), or milk with salt. Especially in the evening, it’s best to stick to lighter, easily digestible meals as digestion naturally weakens later in the day.

As for smoothies, you can still enjoy them by choosing digestion-friendly ingredients. Try substituting yogurt with a bit of coconut or almond milk and avoiding heavy fruits like bananas. Instead, go for apples or berries, which are easier to digest and pair well with plant-based milks.

How strictly you follow these guidelines depends on how sensitive your digestion is. If you feel better by avoiding these combinations and eating mindfully, it’s a good indicator you’re on the right track. Start with small changes, listen to your body, and over time you’ll likely notice increased energy, comfort, and overall wellness from optimizing your food choices in line with Ayurvedic principles.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Yeah, totally get where you’re coming from! Ayurveda can be tricky to navigate at first, especially when it comes to those food combinations. Mixing dairy with fruits, especially sour ones, is generally a no-go in ayurvedic teachings. Like, your yogurt-banana smoothie? That’s a classic example. According to Ayurveda, bananas can be heating and moist, while yogurt is also moist but cooling. They can confuse your digestive system, leading you to bloaty town.

There’s also the thing about “agni” (digestive fire), which needs to be just right for us to feel good after eating. Heavy meals at night can totally mess with that. Your body’s just like, “not again, I’m trying to sleep!” Ideally, dinners should be lighter in general—a warm soup or light curry works better than a hearty stew right before bed.

And you mentioned the sluggish feeling, that’s generally because incompatible combinations or heavy night-time meals tamp down your digestive fire so food isn’t broken down well. Result? You wake up still carrying all that unprocessed guff.

So how strict should you be with these combos? Listen to your body. If something doesn’t sit right, it’s worth a change. Start with the basics: no dairy with fruits, avoid meats with dairy, don’t eat raw and cooked food together. Small tweaks can make a big difference in how you feel!

You could try smaller changes at first, like swapping that yogurt in your smoothie for almond milk. Or having fruit alone in between meals instead of with it. You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. Just take it one meal, one day at a time and see how ya feel 😄

But remember, Ayurveda’s about balance, not restriction. If you go too hardcore, it could be more stress than it’s worth. Start with what seems manageable and go from there!

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Shaniba P
I am an Ayurvedic doctor, someone who’s pretty much built her clinical journey around natural healing, balance and yeah—just trying to help ppl feel a bit more whole again. I work mostly with conditions that kinda stay with people... like joint pain that won’t go away, periods all over the place, kids falling sick again n again, or just the kind of stress that messes up digestion n sleep n everything in between. A lot of my practice circles around arthritis, lower back pain, PCOD-ish symptoms, antenatal care, immunity problems in kids, and those quiet mental health imbalances ppl often don't talk much about. My approach isn’t just pulling herbs off a shelf and calling it a day. I spend time with classical diagnosis—checking Prakriti, figuring out doshas, seeing how much of this is physical and how much is coming from daily routine or emotional burnout. And treatments? Usually a mix of traditional Ayurvedic meds, Panchakarma (only if needed!!), changing food habits, tweaking the daily rhythm, and honestly... just slowing down sometimes. I’m also really into helping ppl understand themselves better—like once someone gets how their body is wired, things make more sense. I talk to patients about what actually suits their dosha, what throws them off balance, and how they can stop chasing quick fixes that don’t stick. Education's a big part of it. And yes, I’ve had patients walk in for constant cold and walk out realizing it’s more about weak agni n poor gut routines than just low immunity. Every case’s diff. Some are simple. Some not. But whether it’s a young woman trying to fix her cycles without hormones or a 6-year-old catching colds every week, I try building plans that last—not just short term relief stuff. Healing takes time and needs trust from both sides. End of the day, I try to keep it rooted—classical where it matters but flexible enough to blend with the world we're livin in rn. That balance is tricky, but worth it.
5
25 reviews
Dr. Nisha Bisht
I am an Ayurvedic physician with over a decade of dedicated experience in both clinical and administrative roles. I began my professional journey with Jiva Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. in Faridabad, where I spent 3 years offering telemedicine and in-clinic consultations, gaining valuable experience in patient-centered care and Ayurvedic treatment protocols. Following this, I served as a Medical Officer at Uttaranchal Ayurved College, Dehradun, for 7 years, where I was actively involved in both patient care and academic responsibilities, refining my clinical skills and deepening my understanding of traditional Ayurvedic practices. Currently, I am working as the Deputy Medical Superintendent at Shivalik Hospital, a unit of Shivalik Ayurved Institute, Dehradun. In this role, I not only manage patient consultations but also oversee hospital operations, ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to promoting authentic Ayurveda, combining classical knowledge with modern healthcare systems to provide effective, safe, and holistic treatment solutions to my patients.
5
205 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am a passionate and responsible Ayurvedic doctor, having completed my internship at the renowned VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala. My clinical journey has been shaped by the rich traditions of Kerala Ayurveda, where I gained extensive hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients with authentic Ayurvedic therapies. I am dedicated to delivering personalized and holistic healthcare, with a focus on preventive medicine and positive lifestyle modification. I actively counsel my patients on achieving optimal health through balanced diet, daily regimen, stress management, and natural therapies. Additionally, I am a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from the Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence, which allows me to integrate meditation and mindfulness techniques into my treatment protocols, promoting mental well-being along with physical health. My approach is rooted in compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to empowering patients on their journey towards complete wellness.
5
97 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
290 reviews
Dr. Anupriya
I am an Ayurvedic doctor trained at one of the most reputed institutes (yeah, the kind that makes u sweat but also feel proud lol) where I completed my BAMS with 70%—not just numbers but real grind behind it. My focus during & after graduation has always been on treating the patient not just the disease, and honestly that philosophy keeps guiding me even now. I usually see anywhere around 50 to 60 patients a day, sometimes more if there's a health camp or local rush. It’s hectic, but I kinda thrive in that rhythm. What matters to me is not the number but going deep into each case—reading every complaint, understanding symptoms, prakriti, current state, season changes etc. and putting together a treatment that feels “right” for that person, not just for the condition. Like, I don’t do one-size-fits-all plans. I sit down, make case reports (yup, proper handwritten notes sometimes), observe small shifts, modify herbs, suggest diet tweaks, even plan rest patterns when needed. I find that holistic angle super powerful. And patients feel it too—some who come in dull n restless, over weeks show clarity, skin settles, energy kinda gets back... that makes the day worth it tbh. There’s no shortcut to trust, and i get that. Maybe that’s why patients keep referring their siblings or maa-papa too. Not bragging, but when people say things like “you actually listened” or “I felt heard”, it stays in the back of my mind even when I’m dog tired lol. My goal? Just to keep learning, treating honestly and evolving as per what each new case teaches me. Ayurveda isn’t static—it grows with u if u let it. I guess I’m just walking that path, one custom plan at a time.
5
2 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
40 reviews
Dr. Vinayak Kamble
1 year
5
50 reviews
Dr. Manjula
I am a dedicated Ayurveda practitioner with a deep-rooted passion for restoring health through traditional Ayurvedic principles. My clinical approach revolves around understanding the unique constitution (Prakruti) and current imbalance (Vikruti) of each individual. I conduct comprehensive consultations that include Prakruti-Vikruti Pareeksha, tongue examination, and other Ayurvedic diagnostic tools to identify the underlying causes of disease, rather than just addressing symptoms. My primary focus is on balancing the doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—through individualized treatment plans that include herbal medicines, therapeutic diets, and lifestyle modifications. I believe that healing begins with alignment, and I work closely with my patients to bring the body, mind, and spirit into harmony using personalized, constitution-based interventions. Whether managing chronic conditions or guiding preventive health, I aim to empower patients through Ayurvedic wisdom, offering not just relief but a sustainable path to well-being. My practice is rooted in authenticity, guided by classical Ayurvedic texts and a strong commitment to ethical, patient-centered care. I take pride in helping people achieve long-term health outcomes by integrating ancient knowledge with a modern, practical approach. Through continuous learning and close attention to every detail in diagnosis and treatment, I strive to deliver meaningful, natural, and effective results for all my patients.
5
64 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
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.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Deepali Goswami
I am Dr. Deepali Goswami, BAMS graduate n working mainly around women's health. Right now m running my own clinic where i treat all kind of gyne problems—from irregular periods to PCOD, white discharge, fertility-related issues, menopausal symptoms n lot more that affects everyday life of females. I usually try to keep the language simple while dealing with patients cause honestly half of them come already confused or like really scared of what's happening inside their body... and if I use too much technical terms it just make it worse. I’ve been practicing in this space for couple of years now—don’t remember the exact month, maybe two or three year back? but anyway, what matters is I’ve seen how many of these problems get ignored till they turn serious. That’s something I feel strongly about. My goal is to help women understand their symptoms early and explain how Ayurveda can help gently but properly, whether it’s hormonal stuff or pain or cycle issues. I use classic Ayurvedic concepts like dosha analysis, ritucharya, n yoni vyapad chikitsa wherever it fits, but sometimes modern lifestyle really needs to be factored in too. Like if someone working night shift, no point telling them to wake up at 5am and do abhyanga daily—it won’t work. I’m practical about it. Anyway, I try my best to create a space where women feel heard. Lot of them said nobody actually explained them what’s going on before. And that’s like the saddest part. I feel my biggest strength is really just listening n tailoring the treatment to her routine, diet n stress pattern. Some cases are harder of course... things don’t always go fast, esp when it’s been neglected for yrs. But then Ayurveda’s not magic. It takes a little time—but results feel real n lasting when done right.
5
7 reviews

Latest reviews

Isaac
2 hours ago
This answer really cleared up my confusion. Felt like they really understood my issues and gave some practical steps. Thanks a ton!
This answer really cleared up my confusion. Felt like they really understood my issues and gave some practical steps. Thanks a ton!
Wyatt
2 hours ago
That advice was super clear and so helpful! Thanks for the detailed recommendations and explanation, feel more confident about what to do next.
That advice was super clear and so helpful! Thanks for the detailed recommendations and explanation, feel more confident about what to do next.
Anthony
2 hours ago
This was super helpful and impresively detailed, understanding both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives was insightful. Thanks for the guidance!
This was super helpful and impresively detailed, understanding both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives was insightful. Thanks for the guidance!
Victoria
3 hours ago
Really appreciated this answer! It was super detailed and made me feel more hopeful about managing things naturally. Thanks so much for the guidance!
Really appreciated this answer! It was super detailed and made me feel more hopeful about managing things naturally. Thanks so much for the guidance!