Vata Aggravating Foods - #3388

Recently, I’ve been feeling restless, anxious, and really cold most of the time, even when everyone around me seems comfortable. My digestion has also been off I often experience bloating and occasional constipation. A friend of mine who practices Ayurveda suggested that these might be signs of aggravated Vata in my body. She mentioned that avoiding Vata aggravating foods could help bring some balance, but I’m honestly not sure where to start with this. For example, I’ve always enjoyed eating salads, crackers, and raw vegetables, especially at night because they’re quick and easy to prepare. I’ve now heard that raw and cold foods might be Vata aggravating foods, but it’s hard to imagine cutting them out completely. Could they really be contributing to my issues? Another thing is that I love snacking on dried fruits like raisins and almonds, and I drink coffee at least twice a day. I suspect these might be Vata aggravating foods too, but I’d like to know why. Is it the dryness, the caffeine, or something else that makes them bad for Vata? And if they are aggravating, what are some good alternatives? I’ve also read that overly spicy or bitter foods might increase Vata. Does this mean I need to avoid my favorite spicy lentil soup? It’s such a staple in my diet. And what about other common foods like bread, pasta, or even sugary treats? Are they also considered Vata aggravating foods? One of my biggest challenges is managing meals at work. I usually skip breakfast, grab something quick and light for lunch, and then eat a big dinner late at night. Could this routine itself be increasing Vata, aside from the specific foods I eat? How important is it to follow regular meal timings when trying to balance Vata? I’d also love to know if there are simple ways to balance Vata if I accidentally eat Vata aggravating foods. For instance, can adding ghee or cooking spices like cumin or turmeric help offset the negative effects of certain meals? Lastly, is there a way to test or monitor if specific foods are actually aggravating my Vata? Should I keep a food diary or look out for specific symptoms like dryness, gas, or difficulty sleeping? I really want to make changes that help me feel grounded and comfortable, but I’m overwhelmed by all the information I’ve come across about Vata aggravating foods. Any guidance or tips would be greatly appreciated!