by alexa berman
What to eat in Ayurveda can also get down to minute detail depending on what imbalances you are experiencing. However, there are some overarching fundamental concepts that everyone can start with. First, what is important to understand is why you should be concerned with what you eat. We can explore that through the theory of tissue formation, or dhatus, and how our tissues receive nourishment.
Dhatus are the seven fundamental tissues that support and sustain the body. The process of nourishing the dhatus is sequential and hierarchical. Each dhatu receives nourishment from the one preceding it, starting from rasa and culminating in shukra. Proper digestion and absorption of food ensure that each dhatu is adequately nourished.
The final essence of this entire process is ojas, which is considered the essence of all the dhatus. Ojas represents the ultimate state of health and well-being, providing strength, immunity, and vitality. This is what all our meals culminate into: life.
The Seven Dhatus
1. Rasa (Plasma/Lymph)
- Primary Function: Nourishment and hydration of tissues.
- Absorption: Rasa is the first tissue to receive nourishment from digested food. It distributes nutrients and fluids throughout the body, providing the essential basis for all subsequent dhatus.
2. Rakta (Blood)
- Primary Function: Oxygenation and vitalization.
- Absorption: After rasa takes the nutrients it needs, then rakta will take what it needs and so forth. Rakta is responsible for carrying oxygen and prana (life force) to all body cells, energizing and sustaining life.
3. Mamsa (Muscle)
- Primary Function: Structural support and movement.
- Absorption: Muscles provide strength and form to the body and play a crucial role in movement and physical activity.
4. Meda (Fat)
- Primary Function: Lubrication and insulation.
- Absorption: Meda provides energy reserves, and insulation, and protects organs by cushioning them.
5. Asthi (Bone)
- Primary Function: Support and protection.
- Absorption: Asthi forms the skeletal structure. Bones provide stability, support, and protection to vital organs.
6. Majja (Bone Marrow/Nerve)
- Primary Function: Immunity and communication.
- Absorption: Majja is crucial for producing blood cells and facilitating neural communication.
7. Shukra and Artava (Reproductive Tissue)
- Primary Function: Reproduction and vitality.
- Absorption: Shukra and Artava are responsible for reproductive functions and contribute to overall vitality and strength.
The entire process of tissue nourishment for the whole system can take up to 30 days. The efficiency of digestion, agni, and quality of nutrition significantly influence the formation and nourishment of these tissues. Eating a balanced diet according to your Ayurvedic constitution is the next step.
The Importance of Eating Seasonally and According to Your Dosha
Ayurveda identifies three primary doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – which represent different combinations of the five elements, earth, water, fire, air, and ether, and govern various physiological and psychological functions. Each person has a unique constitution or prakriti, a specific balance of these doshas.
You want to eat to consistently balance the primary elements of your dosha. If you eat a diet that is made of the element your body naturally generates a lot of, you will build too much of that element in your body and experience disease. Instead, we want to balance with the opposite elements so we can feel at ease.
- Vata Dosha: Composed of air and ether, Vata individuals are prone to irregular digestion and tend to experience bloating, gas, and constipation. To balance Vata, focus on eating warm, cooked foods that are grounding and nourishing. Include healthy fats, whole grains, and root vegetables, and avoid cold, raw, or dry foods. Regular mealtimes and a calm eating environment are crucial for Vata types.
- Pitta Dosha: Made up of fire and water, Pitta individuals have a strong digestive fire but are prone to overheating and acidity. To pacify Pitta, opt for cooling, hydrating foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains. Avoid spicy, fried, or overly sour foods, as well as excessive caffeine and alcohol. Regular, moderate-sized meals and a relaxed eating pace are beneficial for Pitta types.
- Kapha Dosha: Comprised of earth and water, Kapha individuals often have slow digestion and a tendency to gain weight. To balance Kapha, choose light, warming, and stimulating foods, such as spicy, bitter, and astringent flavors. Incorporate plenty of fresh vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins while avoiding heavy, oily, or sugary foods. Eating smaller portions and avoiding late-night meals can help Kapha types maintain a healthy metabolism.
Oftentimes we may have an imbalance of an element that is not our primary dosha. When this happens it is always important to stick to easy-to-breakdown meals like soups, cooked vegetables, and lean meats that will offer a grounding energy and an easy process of digestion.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
picture: anna jakutajc wojtalik
