Harsh summer is upon us and it’s that time of the year when Pitta becomes aggravated and can play havoc with our lives. The concept of Ayurveda focuses on the understanding that our food has a direct effect on our overall health. Summer is hot, bright and sharp, and is known to be the season of pitta dosha. Therefore, Ayurveda suggests that everyone, especially individuals whose prakruti is primarily pitta dosha, is to keep cool and not allow it to be aggravated. The right foods eaten according to the season can help promote detox and rejuvenate the body that further leads to an overall boost in the immunity, physical and mental strength and digestion. Dryness and heat increases in summer, hence making digestive system weak. A few of the summer foods that Ayurveda suggests to include in your daily diet during Summer are:
1. Amla (Indian gooseberry)
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, makes for a popular and healthy fruit, and is known for numerous nutritional benefits. This sour-bitter fruit works as an excellent coolant during hot days.
2. Ghee
According to Ayurveda, ghee is loaded with healthy fats that help our body to keep going. Moreover, our body gets dry in summer, therefore, consumption of a half spoon of ghee every day may help balance the internal moisture.
3. Alkaline Vegetables
During the process of digestion, our stomach tends to secrete gastric acids that help in breaking down foods. Sometimes due to unhealthy lifestyle and food habits, the acidic level of the body increases, leading to acidity and acid refluxes. In order to reduce the chances of increased acid levels, you must binge on alkaline foods like green leafy vegetables, root vegetables like sweet potato, beetroots, carrots, nuts, onion and garlic.
4. Water-rich Fruits
Summers also welcome water-rich fruits like watermelon, berries, grapefruits, pineapple, peaches, mango. These fruits will keep you from getting dehydrated and ensure you are refreshed.
5. Herbs Like Ashwagandha, Brahmi And Tulsi
These three cooling herbs help in cooling your body. Ashwagandha is known to reduce inflammation in the body further treating conditions like asthma and arthritis. Brahmi can soothe the body nerves and reduce stress in the body. Tulsi, or holy basil, acts as a detoxifying and cleansing agent. It is also known to cool your body system in extreme heat.
Itoozhi Ayurveda, a leading Ayurvedic Hospital in Kerala, close to the Kannur International Airport, conducts regular lifestyle clinics.
