Can We Drink Milk After Mushroom

Question

I’ve been trying to follow Ayurvedic food rules lately, but I came across something that left me confused. Can we drink milk after mushroom, or is it considered harmful in Ayurveda? I’ve always loved recipes like creamy mushroom soups and pasta with milk-based sauces, but someone mentioned that mixing mushrooms and milk might disrupt digestion.

If we can’t drink milk after mushroom, what’s the reasoning behind it? Is it because mushrooms are considered “tamasic,” or does it have something to do with how milk and mushrooms are digested differently? I haven’t noticed any major issues after eating them together, but I do feel a bit heavy or sluggish sometimes. Could that be related to this combination?

I’d love to know if there are exceptions to this rule. For example, would using plant-based milk like almond or oat milk make a difference? Or is it just best to avoid mixing mushrooms and milk altogether? If anyone has insights on whether we can drink milk after mushroom, please let me know. It’s hard to balance eating what I enjoy and following proper Ayurvedic guidelines!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, the combination of milk and mushrooms is generally considered undesirable, primarily because of how these two foods are digested and their differing energetic qualities. Mushrooms are classified as tamasic (influencing dullness or heaviness) and are thought to be difficult to digest, especially when combined with milk, which is considered heavy and cooling. Both foods can contribute to sluggish digestion and the formation of toxins (ama) in the body, leading to feelings of heaviness or lethargy, which you’ve mentioned experiencing.

Milk, being a rich and nourishing food, requires proper digestion to be absorbed effectively, and when combined with mushrooms, it can create digestive imbalance, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems. This combination is thought to lead to improper breakdown of nutrients, resulting in digestive discomfort and bloating.

As for plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, they are generally lighter and may be easier to digest than dairy milk, but the core issue of combining mushrooms with heavy foods still applies. While there may be less strain on digestion with plant-based milk, it’s still wise to avoid such combinations for optimal digestion and energy.

If you love dishes like creamy mushroom soups, consider using spices like turmeric, black pepper, and ginger to support digestion, and try opting for lighter, non-dairy options that are easier on your system. Additionally, spacing out the consumption of mushrooms and milk to separate meals might also help reduce any potential sluggishness.

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