The concept of food, according to standard definition, refers to any substance consumed to provide nourishment to living organisms. It typically originates from plants, animals, or fungi and contains essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Once ingested, food is assimilated by the organism’s cells to supply energy, sustain life, or promote growth.

A well-balanced diet furnishes the necessary energy for activity and supplies nutrients crucial for growth and repair, thereby fostering strength, health, and the prevention of diet-related ailments. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and moderate amounts of fats and dairy(for people with sedentary lifestyles), can facilitate weight management by reducing the consumption of high-fat and high-sugar foods.

The contemporary perspective on food emphasizes the importance of exercise and a well-rounded diet to aid in weight loss, cholesterol reduction, blood pressure control, and overall health improvement.

In contrast, the Ayurvedic approach to food is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and encompasses a holistic lifestyle rather than just dietary practices.

Ayurveda, a centuries-old system of Medicine and Nutrition developed alongside Yoga, views diet as fundamental to preventing illness and maintaining balance.

Ayurveda, originating from the Indian Subcontinent, is more than just a dietary regimen; it’s a comprehensive lifestyle deeply rooted in a tradition of over 3000 years. The term “Ayurveda” stems from the Sanskrit words Ayu (life) and Veda (knowledge), emphasizing its focus on diverse aspects of health and well-being, including longevity and sustainable happiness.

According to Ayurveda, health encompasses three fundamental states: physical, mental, and spiritual, all interrelated with the external environment.

This holistic approach highlights the constant interaction between the Being or entity and the outside world through senses (knowledge and action), with both parties influencing each other.

Ayurveda’s foundation lies in The Five Element Theory or Panchamahabhuta, categorizing the external world and the individual into the earth, water, fire, air, and aether, corresponding to the five senses ie smell, taste, vision, touch, sound(respectively).

To simplify physiological and pathological understanding, these elements are further condensed into three doshas ie Tridosa:

1. Vata (space and air)
2. Pitta (fire)
3. Kapha (water and earth)

Various aspects of health, including body types, metabolic processes, biological rhythms, and seasonal variations, are explained through permutations and combinations of these elements and doshas within the body. This intricate understanding forms the basis of Ayurveda’s approach to promoting well-being and preventing illness.

While Modern Science and Ayurveda operate on different principles and have different approaches but both are focused on the same point which is how and which type of foods can benefit the human body and keep us free from diseases. Combining aspects of both these sciences can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of health and well-being, fostering a healthier lifestyle.

Future blogs will delve deeper into this integration.

 Stay tuned for more information!