That Cool The Body Ayurveda - #6204
I’ve been feeling really overheated lately – not just because of the weather but also internally. My skin feels hot to touch, and I’ve been getting more breakouts and acidity. I think I need to focus on eating foods that cool the body Ayurveda style, but I don’t know where to start. What are the best foods that cool the body Ayurveda recommends? I’ve heard about things like cucumber and coconut water, but I don’t know if there are others that are just as effective. Also, should I avoid certain foods like spicy or oily dishes? I’ve been drinking a lot of water, but it doesn’t seem to help much. Could there be a specific way to prepare or combine foods that cool the body Ayurveda suggests to make them more effective? Are there any cooling herbs or spices I can add to my meals? I’m also curious if eating these foods can help balance pitt dosha, which I think is causing these symptoms. If anyone has experience with using foods that cool the body Ayurveda recommends, I’d love to hear how it worked for you. Did you notice improvements right away?
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Doctors’ responses
Your symptoms strongly suggest a Pitta imbalance, which manifests as internal heat, acidity, and skin issues. To cool the body, focus on hydrating and soothing foods like cucumber, coconut water, watermelon, mint, fennel, and coriander. Incorporate cooling spices like cardamom and turmeric while avoiding spicy, fried, oily, and sour foods that aggravate Pitta. Sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes are ideal for Pitta; include ghee, cooling grains like barley and basmati rice, and sweet fruits such as pears and pomegranates. Prepare meals lightly steamed or raw for better cooling effects, and avoid reheating leftovers. Drink herbal teas with rose or licorice, and infuse water with mint or fennel for added benefits. These dietary adjustments can help balance Pitta and reduce your symptoms over time.
Your symptoms strongly suggest a Pitta imbalance, which manifests as internal heat, acidity, and skin issues. To cool the body, focus on hydrating and soothing foods like cucumber, coconut water, watermelon, mint, fennel, and coriander. Incorporate cooling spices like cardamom and turmeric while avoiding spicy, fried, oily, and sour foods that aggravate Pitta. Sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes are ideal for Pitta; include ghee, cooling grains like barley and basmati rice, and sweet fruits such as pears and pomegranates. Prepare meals lightly steamed or raw for better cooling effects, and avoid reheating leftovers. Drink herbal teas with rose or licorice, and infuse water with mint or fennel for added benefits.
Feeling overheated can be quite bothersome, especially when the skin and digestion are involved. From what you’ve described, it sounds like you might be dealing with a Pitta imbalance. You’re on the right track thinking about foods that cool the body according to Ayurveda.
Cucumbers and coconut water are great choices - hydrating and soothing. But there are other foods you can add to your diet too. Focus on sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes, known to balance Pitta. Foods like melons, leafy greens (think spinach or lettuce), and zucchini can be helpful. Fresh fruits like pears, apples or berries will be cooling too. Try having them in their whole form or as freshly squeezed juices.
Definitely smart to avoid overly spicy, fried or oily foods. They can inflame Pitta, making symptoms worse. Be cautious with sour foods (like vinegar or fermented foods), and salty snacks, as they too can increase heat.
Herbs and spices—such as coriander, mint, and fennel—are excellent for their cooling properties. You might try making a coriander water drink: soak a teaspoon of coriander seeds overnight in water, strain, and drink it in the morning. You’ll find it cooling and refreshing.
Preparation methods make a difference, honestly. Stick to cooling techniques like steaming or sautéing with ghee, which is much gentler than aggressive frying.
Balancing Pitta could take some time, so be patient. Noticeable improvements might take a few days to weeks, depending on consistency. Look for less skin irritation, better digestion, and fewer breakouts over time.
Stay attuned to how your body responds and adjust accordingly. Ayurveda is about personalization—what works for one might not for another. Also, if symptoms persist, it wouldn’t hurt to consult an Ayurvedic professional for deeper insight, they might provide personalized remedies or therapies.
Oh, and, incidentally, keep stress-free as much as possible, as it can fire up Pitta too. Yoga, meditation or even simple breathing exercises can be quite beneficial. Hope this works for you, and you get that all-important sense of balance soon!

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