Aahar - A Key Factor in Health
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Abstract
The famous Upanishadic saying "Annam vai pranah" means that life is sustained by food. The body is described in the Nirukta as constantly changing; "Kshane kshane shiryate tat shariram" means that the living body's every cell diminishes moment by moment and is replaced by new cells. For the nourishment of this depletion, food is essential. Maintaining a healthy body through appropriate timing, quantity, and manner of food intake ensures the well-being of the body. Therefore, Ayurveda emphasizes food as the primary pillar for maintaining a healthy body. Ayurveda provides detailed guidelines on balanced nutrition, including the avoidance of negative factors such as improper timing, quantity, and incompatible foods like contradictory combinations, stale food, etc. It emphasizes not only the prevention of diseases but also the use of appropriate food habits even in various disease conditions. Food plays a significant role in both the prevention and treatment of diseases in Ayurveda. Ayurveda suggests that food choices should be according to individual constitution or nature. According to Ayurveda, beneficial/nourishing food is conducive to overall health, longevity, strength, and intellect. To lead a disease-free life, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate food, combining foods correctly, and cooking methods, as well as consuming food in appropriate quantities at the right time. Digestion is also crucial. It advises against consuming unsuitable food (incompatible food) to maintain well-being. Ayurveda describes four types of foods: solid (to be eaten), liquid (to be drunk), semi-liquid (to be sipped), and light (to be licked). Following a proper diet leads to a healthy body, happiness, truthfulness, observance of celibacy, and ultimately towards liberation.