Digestion plays a vital role in our overall well-being. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers an approach to maintaining a healthy digestive system. By following Ayurvedic principles and incorporating specific tips and practices, you can enhance your digestion, leading to better health and vitality.
Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, shares tips to improve digestion.
According to the Sushrut Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text, balanced doshas or mind-body energies, balanced agni or digestive fire, balanced dhatus (bodily tissues), balanced mals or wastes, and a well coordinated and alert state of Self (tm), senses (Indriyas), and mind (Manas) result in healthy digestion.
“Your agni, or digestive fire, is present in all of your cells, not only the gut. It is in charge of both your digestion (of food and experiences) and your cellular intellect. When agni is weakened, ama or poisons begin to build up, obstructing the flow of nutrients and energy and initiating the illness process”, said Dr Chaudhary.
Mindful Eating
One of the core principles of Ayurveda is mindful eating. Focus on your meal and avoid distractions like TV or phones. Chew your food thoroughly, as this initiates the digestive process in the mouth and helps ease the burden on your stomach.
Consume Warm Water
Dr Chaudhary recommends starting your day with a glass of warm water. This practice aids in flushing out toxins and jumpstarts your digestive system. Sipping warm water throughout the day can also help in digestion.
Favour Digestive Spices
Ayurveda emphasises the use of spices like ginger, cumin, coriander, and fennel. These spices not only add flavour but also support digestion. Ginger tea or a teaspoon of cumin seeds after meals can be particularly helpful.
Also read: Debunking 6 Common Digestion Myths
Follow Proper Food Combining
Ayurveda suggests specific food combinations for optimal digestion. For example, avoid mixing dairy with fruits or consuming very cold and very hot foods together. Pay attention to these guidelines for smoother digestion.
Include Fibre in Your Diet
Fibre-rich foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Opt for high-fibre choices to maintain a healthy digestive tract.
Avoid Overeating
Overeating can overwhelm your digestive system. Ayurveda recommends leaving a little space in your stomach after meals to aid digestion. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also be beneficial.
Also read: Ayurveda Expert Explains Tips For Good Digestion Of Food
Stay Hydrated
Adequate water intake is crucial for digestion. Sip water between meals rather than with your food, as excessive fluids during meals can dilute stomach acids and hinder digestion.
Practice Yoga and Pranayama
Yoga poses, especially those that involve twisting and bending, can massage your internal organs and improve digestion. Breathing exercises, or pranayama, can help reduce stress, which can negatively impact digestion.
Maintain a Routine
Ayurveda places great importance on maintaining a regular routine, including meal times. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and enhances digestion.
Ayurvedic Herbs
“Herbal supplements like Triphala, which is a blend of three fruits, are renowned in Ayurveda for their digestive benefits,” said Dr Chaudhary, adding, they aid in detoxification and promote regular bowel movements.
Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to digestion improvement. You can improve your digestive health by eating mindfully, including digestive spices, eating the proper meal combinations, and staying hydrated. A healthy digestive system is vital to your health, according to Ayurveda, thus these practises can contribute to an increased overall sense of well-being and vigour.
Disclaimer: It's important to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any herbal supplements, as they can interact with medications or have specific contraindications.