365betÓéÀÖ

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Know what we eat?
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Dr.Hema sundari.ch, Dr.S.Rathnam, Dr.A.Rama Krishna, Dr.K.V.Shivudu, Dr.G.P.Ramreddy


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Know what we eat?

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

In the modern era, the rush to meet goals often leads individuals to ignore the properties of the foods they consume, contributing to lifestyle diseases. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, provides a detailed understanding of food properties and their impact on health, emphasizing the importance of diet in preventing and curing diseases. Indian cuisine, including a wide variety of regional specialties, has evolved over time influenced by cultural and religious factors.

Importance of Nutritional Properties in Food

According to Ayurveda, food plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Understanding the qualities or "Gunas" of food is essential, such as whether a food is heavy or light, its impact on different bodily Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), and its nutritional benefits. For instance, food items like Idly are considered nourishing and strength-promoting, while Sambar is recognized for its heavier and slightly aggravating properties on Vata and Kapha. This knowledge helps in making informed dietary choices that align with one's health needs and bodily conditions.

Regional and Classic Food Preparations

Cooked using diverse ingredients and methods, traditional foods from regions like Andhra Pradesh reflect their nutritional and medicinal properties as described in Ayurvedic texts. Foods like Vada (Garelu) made of black gram are aphrodisiac, laxative, and nourishing but can aggravate Kapha when fried in oil. Similarly, sweets, such as Ariselu, prepared with rice flour and jaggery, are heavy and nourishing but can cause abdominal pain and body aches if not consumed properly. These regional recipes offer both health benefits and potential risks based on their preparation and consumption.

Ayurvedic Insights on Modern Food Items

Modern dietary habits have seen an increase in the variety of food consumption times (breakfast, snacks, etc.) and a shift from traditional foods. Ayurveda provides insights into the properties of these modern items too. For example, Bread is considered easy to digest and nourishing, while items prepared with pulses or black gram can be heavy and cooling. The preparation method, whether using ghee or oil, also impacts the food’s effect on the body, with ghee-based preparations being more strength-giving and beneficial for Vata and Pitta, whereas oil-based preparations might be hot in potency and vitiate Pitta and Rakta.

Conclusion

The Ayurvedic classification of food properties aids in both curing and preventing diseases, making it a useful framework for determining suitable diets (Pathya) and inappropriate foods (Apathya) for daily life. This understanding underscores the importance of a thoughtful and informed approach to nutrition.

The authors express gratitude to their colleagues for support during the study and research presented.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the focus of this research paper?

The research paper focuses on the properties of breakfast items, sweets, and savories from Andhra Pradesh and parts of India in relation to Ayurvedic principles.

How does Ayurveda view the role of food?

Ayurveda views food as a causative factor for diseases and also a means to cure and prevent diseases. Good nutrition and a healthy diet play crucial roles according to Ayurvedic literature.

What are the properties of Idly according to Ayurveda?

Idly promotes strength, is tasty, heavy, pacifies vata, gives nourishment, and increases semen.

How is Sambar described in Ayurvedic terms?

Sambar is heavy to digest, slightly causes vata, aggravates kapha, and pacifies pains.

What are the effects of consuming Vada according to Ayurveda?

Vada is aphrodisiac, pacifies vata, is laxative, and, if fried in ghee, pacifies body pains and grahani. However, if fried in oil, it causes urticaria, cough, and aggravation of kapha.

What are the benefits of consuming sweets like Laddu?

Laddu is strengthening, light to digest, cooling, slightly aggravates vata, remains undigested forming bulk, relieves fever, and pacifies aggravated pitta, rakta, and kapha.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Know what we eat?�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Kapha:
One of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, it represents the elements of earth and water. It governs structure, lubrication and stability in the body. Foods that aggravate Kapha can lead to lethargy and a sense of heaviness.

2) Vata (VÄá¹­a, Vaá¹­a, VÄta, Vaá¹­Ä�):
Another dosha in Ayurvedic medicine, symbolizing air and space. It controls bodily movement, including blood flow and nerve impulses. The balance of Vata is crucial for maintaining healthy bodily functions.

3) Pitta (PÄ«tta, Piá¹­á¹­Ä):
The third dosha, representing fire and water, responsible for digestion, metabolism, and energy production. An imbalance in Pitta can cause issues like inflammation and digestive ailments.

4) Ghi (Ghī, Ghee):
Clarified butter widely used in Indian cuisine and Ayurvedic recipes, it increases strength, pacifies Vata and Pitta, and supports digestion and overall health. It is especially beneficial for the gastrointestinal tract.

5) Sundari (Sundarī, Sumdari):
Part of the name Dr. Hema Sundari Ch, indicating the author and researcher involved in the study about the qualities of food items in Ayurvedic literature.

6) Hema (HemÄ, Heman):
A component of the author Dr. Hema Sundari Ch's name, contributing to the research that focuses on Ayurvedic perspectives on food consumption and health.

7) Rice (Ṛce):
A staple food in many cuisines and the primary ingredient in several mentioned dishes like idly and pulao. It generally promotes strength and nourishment but can be heavy and cause imbalances in certain doshas if prepared improperly.

8) Water:
Essential for cooking and hydration, used in most recipes and preparations. Its quantity and quality influence the digestive properties and the resulting effects of the food items.

9) Jaggery:
An unrefined sugar used in multiple sweet items. It has warming properties and is usually heavy, affecting Kapha and Pitta doshas. It provides immediate energy and is considered a healthier option than refined sugar.

10) Milk:
Utilized in various recipes for its nourishing and cooling properties. It is heavy, can increase Kapha and cooling, and is beneficial for those needing strength and vitality.

11) Sugar:
Used in preparing sweets like laddus. It is generally heavy, affects Kapha, and may lead to an increase in body fat if consumed in excess.

12) Burning sensation:
A symptom described in the context of food properties in Ayurveda. Certain foods, especially those prepared with specific spices or ingredients, can cause this sensation, indicating an imbalance in Pitta.

13) Diet:
A crucial aspect of health discussed in the paper, emphasizing the Ayurvedic perspective on the impact of different foods on body doshas and overall well-being. A balanced diet prevents and cures diseases.

14) Salt (Salty):
Commonly used in cooking, it can pacify Vata but aggravate Kapha and Pitta when used excessively. Its properties and impact on health are discussed in various recipes.

15) Rakta (RaktÄ):
Refers to blood. Several food items' effects on Rakta (blood) are discussed, including their properties related to improving or aggravating blood-related conditions.

16) Asafoetida:
A spice known for its strong flavor and digestive properties. It helps in pacifying Vata and promoting digestive health when used in moderation.

17) Vatadosha (VÄtadoá¹£a, Vata-dosha):
Refers to disorders caused by an imbalance of Vata dosha. Several foods' impacts on Vatadosha are discussed, highlighting those that can aggravate or pacify this imbalance.

18) Shrikanda (ÅšrÄ«kandÄ, Shri-kanda, Shrikamda):
A nutritious and palatable preparation made of concentrated curds mixed with sugar and spices. Known for its strength-giving properties, it is beneficial for balancing Vata and Pitta.

19) Samita (Åšamita, Shamita, SamitÄ, SÄmita):
Also known as white wheat flour. Used in various recipes, it promotes strength and pacifies Vata and Pitta but can be heavy and may aggravate Kapha if not balanced properly.

20) Purika (PÅ«rikÄ, PÅ«rika, PurikÄ):
A type of food item made from dough and fillings, often deep-fried. It has specific properties affecting taste, digestion, and dosha balance.

21) Rotika (Roá¹­ikÄ):
A type of chapati or flatbread made with wheat, promoting strength and pacifying Vata and Pitta while being heavy and nourishing.

22) Thirst:
A symptom whose alleviation is considered in the properties of various food items, emphasizing the importance of hydration and balanced food choices.

23) Agni:
Metabolic fire responsible for digestion and assimilation of food. Proper functioning of Agni is essential for health, and different foods have varying effects on it.

24) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
Quality or property of food items. Ayurvedic texts describe the Gunas of foods, which help in determining their effect on doshas and overall health.

25) Post:
Describes something occurring after, such as the post-digestive effect (Vipaka) of foods in Ayurvedic texts.

26) Narikerakshiri (NÄrikerakṣīri, Narikera-kshiri):
A preparation made from coconut and milk, rich in nutrients, nourishing, heavy, and beneficial for various conditions including blood disorders.

27) Green gram:
Known for its nourishing and strength-promoting properties, it is used in various dishes like Pesarattu and aids in balancing Pitta and Vata.

28) Substance:
Refers to the ingredients or combinations of items described in recipes, highlighting their specific Ayurvedic properties and effects on health.

29) Ayurveda (Ä€yurveda, Ayus-veda):
An ancient system of medicine from India, focusing on the balance of doshas, proper nutrition, and holistic well-being through diet and lifestyle.

30) Shashkuli (Śaṣkulī, Śaṣkuli, Śaskulī, Shaskuli, Sashkuli):
Thin cakes made from wheat flour, known for their nourishing and strength-giving properties, also balancing Vata and Pitta.

31) Tamarind:
Commonly used in Indian cuisine, especially in curries and sauces. It has properties that pacify Vata and Kapha but can aggravate Pitta.

32) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
Refers to buffalo milk, which when processed and consumed, provides nourishment and strength but also has heavy and Kapha-increasing properties.

33) Rasala (RasÄla, RasalÄ):
A preparation similar to Srikanda, made from concentrated curds, known for its nourishing, cooling, and Vata-Pitta pacifying properties.

34) Polika (PolikÄ):
A type of fried flatbread made from wheat flour, mentioned for its nourishing and strength-promoting qualities in Ayurvedic texts.

35) Medas (Meda, MedÄ, Medash):
Another term for fat, important in discussing the nourishing properties and weight impact of various food items in Ayurveda.

36) Masha (MÄsa, Masa, MÄá¹£a, MaÅ›a, MÄsÄ, Ma-sha):
Black gram known for its strength-promoting properties but can increase Pitta and Kapha when consumed in excess.

37) Vada (VÄda):
A type of deep-fried snack made from legumes, recognized for its nourishing but potentially heavy and Kapha-aggravating effects.

38) Kala (KÄlÄ, KalÄ, KÄla):
Refers to time or period, such as meals in the daily routine (e.g., breakfast, lunch). Ayurveda emphasizes meal timing for optimal digestion and health.

39) Curd:
Used in various preparations, curd is cooling, nourishing, and beneficial for digestion when used appropriately. It balances Vata but can increase Kapha.

40) Vyayamashakti (VyÄyÄmaÅ›akti, Vyayama-shakti):
Refers to physical activity capacity. The impact of food on one's energy levels and ability to perform physical tasks is a consideration in Ayurvedic dietetics.

41) Dravyaguna (Dravyaguṇa, Dravya-guna):
The study of substances and their qualities in Ayurveda, assessing their effects on doshas, overall health, and specific conditions.

42) Mashavataka (MÄá¹£avaá¹­aka, Masha-vataka):
A preparation made from blackgram, often deep-fried, with properties like being laxative, nourishing, and concerning for doshic balance.

43) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
A condition involving bleeding and Pitta imbalance. Certain foods have properties that either alleviate or aggravate this condition.

44) Butter milk (Buttermilk):
A by-product of churning butter, it pacifies Vata and Pitta, aids digestion, and is used in several Ayurvedic recipes for its health benefits.

45) Bhimasena (Bhīmasena, Bhima-sena):
Referenced in the context of Srikanda preparation, Bhimasena is known for his expertise in cookery and contributions to traditional recipes.

46) Shalipishta (ÅšÄlipiṣṭa, Shali-pishta):
Food items prepared with rice flour. These tend to be heavy and can aggravate Kapha and Pitta if not balanced properly.

47) Tridosha (Tridoá¹£a, Tri-dosha):
The concept of three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda, their balance being crucial for maintaining health and preventing disease.

48) Vataroga (VÄtaroga, Vata-roga):
Diseases caused by Vata dosha imbalance. Certain food items are recommended or avoided based on their potential to aggravate or pacify Vata.

49) Prastha (Prashtha, Praṣṭha, PrasthÄ):
A measure used in ancient texts for quantities, indicating how much of an ingredient is used in a recipe, affecting the resultant properties.

50) Grahani (Grahaṇ�):
Refers to digestive disorders affecting the absorption of nutrients. Certain foods are mentioned in texts for their ability to either alleviate or exacerbate these conditions.

51) Krishna (Kṛṣṇ�, Kṛṣṇa):
Lord Krishna is mentioned in the context of Srikanda, emphasizing its nourishing and strength-giving properties. His preference indicates the health benefits of the preparation.

52) Apathya (ApÄá¹­hya):
Foods or practices that are detrimental to health, often mentioned in Ayurvedic texts to guide dietary choices for maintaining dosha balance.

53) Quality:
Refers to the Guna of food items, which are their inherent properties affecting health and dosha balance, crucial in Ayurvedic dietary recommendations.

54) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Used in preparations like Narikerakshiri, it is highly nutritious, heavy, and has cooling properties, beneficial for various doshic balances.

55) Dravya:
A substance or ingredient in Ayurveda, each with specific Gunas and effects on doshas, used judiciously in creating balanced meals and remedies.

56) Modaka (ModÄka, ModakÄ):
A sweet made from Bengal gram flour, known for its strength-giving, palatable, and Vata-pacifying properties though it can be heavy and form bulk in digestion.

57) Adhaka (Ä€á¸haka):
An ancient measurement for volume used in Ayurvedic recipes to indicate how much quantity of an ingredient should be used for intended benefits.

58) Pathya (PathyÄ, PÄá¹­hya):
Foods that are beneficial and supportive of health, often recommended based on their effects on doshas and overall well-being in Ayurveda.

59) Cipita (Cipiá¹­a):
Another name for Atukulu or flattened rice, which is heavy and strength-promoting. Its preparation methods influence its nutritional and doshic effects.

60) Lavana (Lavaṇa, Lavaṇ�):
Salt, known for affecting the taste and doshic balance of foods. Moderate use pacifies Vata but excessive use aggravates Kapha and Pitta.

61) Arush (Aru�):
Refers to the hurried modern lifestyle, often leading to neglect of food quality and properties, resulting in lifestyle diseases as mentioned in the text.

62) Caraka (CÄraka, CÄrÄka):
A property of food items indicating ease of digestion and promoting bowel movements, enhancing overall digestive health.

63) Dosha (Dosa, Doá¹£a, DosÄ, Doá¹£Ä�, ḌosÄ):
The fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, whose balance determines health. Food's impact on doshas is central to dietary recommendations.

64) Shukra (ÅšukrÄ, Åšukra):
Refers to semen or reproductive tissue in Ayurveda. Several food items are mentioned for their potential to enhance Sukra and promote reproductive health.

65) Maida (MaidÄ):
Refined wheat flour, often used in preparation of breads and sweets. It is generally less nutritious than whole wheat and can have different doshic effects.

66) Pearl:
Used metaphorically to describe the appearance of fried flour drops in the preparation of certain sweets, highlighting the texture and quality of the food.

67) Blood:
Nourishment and purity of blood (Rakta) are considered in Ayurvedic dietary practices, with certain foods recommended to improve or maintain blood health.

68) Anna (Aṇṇa, AññÄ, Añña, Ä€nna, Aṉṉa, AṉṉÄ):
Food or grains, fundamental to diet. Proper choice and preparation of Anna are crucial for maintaining dosha balance and overall health in Ayurveda.

69) Ritu (Ṛtu):
Season, which affects dosha balance and influences dietary recommendations. Different foods are suited to different Rituseasons to maintain equilibrium.

70) Rama (RamÄ, RÄmÄ, RÄma):
Dr. A. Rama Krishna, one of the authors involved in the research, contributing to the study on the Ayurvedic properties of food items.

71) Meat:
Mentioned as part of Andhra Pradesh cuisine, it is generally rich in protein and has specific properties affecting doshas and overall health.

Other Science Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Know what we eat?�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Ayurveda, Modaka, Bengal gram, Digestive fire, Ayurvedic literature, Good nutrition, Healthy eating, Lifestyle disease, Dietary habit, Well Balanced Diet, Properties of food.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Help to become even better: