Principle and Practice of Nutrition and Dietetics in Ayurveda

Human biological system requires diet or food to provide energy for all life process, growth, repair and maintenance. Ahara is very much emphasizes in Ayurveda for the prevention and management of a wide range of disorders. As per the view point of Ayurveda, both the living human body and the diseases afflicting it are the products of Ahara. Use of Hita Ahara (wholesome diet) promotes health and longevity and Ahita Ahara (unwholesome diet) promotes manifestation of different disorders. Therefore, Ahara is considered as Prana (basis of life).The principle of dietetics and nutrition in Ayurvedic system of medicine include different classes of Ahara i.e. eating and drinking items, principle of Pathyapathya (wholesome and unwholesome diet), discipline of eating (Ashta Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatan, Dvadasha Asana Vidhi etc.), Viruddha Ahara (incompatible diet). Ashta Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatan includes eight discipline of eating and Dvadasha Asana Vidhi includes the twelve discipline of eating as described by Acharya Charaka and Sushruta respectively and are very important in daily life for promotion of positive health. Eating balanced diet on a regular basis and staying at ideal weight are critical factors for maintaining emotional and physical well-being.