Poha, flattened rice, can certainly be part of your strategy to gain weight, but it’s important to prepare it thoughtfully and understand its role in your diet. In Siddha-Ayurveda, we often approach diet by finding balance in your doshas and strengthening agni, your digestive fire. Poha is a light and easily digestible food, which makes it suitable for stimulating agni while not being too heavy, especially during breakfast. However, its effectiveness in weight gain largely depends on how you prepare it and what you combine it with.
For gaining weight, you can enhance the nutrient profile of poha by adding ingredients rich in healthy fats and proteins. Consider including peanuts, which offer good fats and protein, and coconut scrapings for their medium-chain triglycerides (beneficial fats). Vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes add bulk and micronutrients, while spices like turmeric and mustard seeds will enhance flavor and improve digestion.
In Ayurveda, sustaining a regular eating routine is key, especially to help balance vata dosha when stress disrupts your normal dietary habits. Try to eat at consistent times to rebalance, and avoid skipping meals, as it can disturb your metabolic fire. As you’re trying to gain weight, focus on meals that are calorie-dense and include healthy fats and proteins.
Also, ensure that you are chewing well and eating in a relaxed environment, as these practices support stronger digestion and assimilation of nutrients. If you find poha isn’t enough for a meal, pair it with another dish, like a bowl of lentil soup or yogurt, to further increase proteins and calories. Also, you might want to include some ghee in your diet, as it’s beneficial for weight gain and aids in absorbing nutrients more effectively.
While poha can contribute positively to your diet plan, make sure you’re incorporating a variety of other nutrient-rich foods. If stress continues to impact your eating habits, considering relaxation techniques or regular practice of yoga asanas might be helpful to maintain balance and reduce stress-induced weight loss.
