Article: CONCEPTUAL INSIGHTS OF AHARA (DIET) IN AYURVEDA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.166225

Pages: 125-128

Author: Abhishek Thorba Kadam, Vaishnavi Anandrao Deshmukh, Vinayak Nilkanth Joshi*, Prakash Mukund Mane

Abstract: World Health Organization (WHO) explains about unhealthy food and malnutrition as a third major cause of death worldwide. Classical texts also mention eating Ahitkar ahara (unwholesome diet) as a cause of various health disorders. On the other hand, concept of Hitkar ahara (wholesome diet), its quality, quantity, daily and seasonal regimens and forbidden dietary practices (Ninditashana) gives a broad idea to maintain health. This study aims to explore conceptual understanding of Ahara from ancient Samhita and modern science. A thorough literature study from Brihatrayi and online databases as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and Ayush research articles were done. The review is a careful compilation of above data to analyse importance, classification of Ahara and its role in maintaining health and life. Ahara is defined as sustainer of life. It is not merely intake of food but also include type, quality, quantity, timing and digestive capacity as a consideration of individual approach and Ninditashana (forbidden dietary practices) as a cause of various diseases. Ancient dietary principles align with modern nutritional science offering personalised and preventive approach. Holistic approach to dietary practices helps in maintaining health, body-mind balance, immunity, physical, mental as well as spiritual strength and longevity of life.

Keyword: Ahara, Ahara Matra, Ninditashana, Rasa Sevan Krama, Saliva, Trayopastambha.