An Analytical Review on Ahita Aahara w.s.r. to Viruddha Aahara (Food Incompatibility)

Abstract

Food is that which is consumed in sufficient quantity and quality to meet the dietary needs for a “healthy and active life”. From time immemorial Anna/Aahara (food) is given prime importance and is considered as Bramha in Taittiriya Upanishad, i.e., food is responsible for life of all beings. As our Deha (body) and Aahara (food) are Panchaboutika (five great elements) in composition it is essential to take balanced diet to lead healthy life. Thus aahara vidhi vidhanas (eating habits) should be followed to achieve the condition of being sound in body, mind and spirit for Chaturvidha Purusharta Sadhana (to achieve four requisites for life). As the phrase goes WE ARE WHAT WE EAT..., i.e., our bodily constitution and psychological atmosphere are determined by what and how we eat? Ayurveda has explained Aahara as premier among Trayopasthambas (three subpillars of body). Further emphasizing on Aahara vidhi vidhana, Ashta Aahara Vishesha Ayatanas (rules for intake of food and determinants of food) and Prabhava of Aahara (special action) on body, i.e., Hita (wholesome) or Ahita (unwholesome) Aahara which causes Sukha (happiness) or Dukha (sorrow) to body. But do not expel out and acts contradictory to body are Viruddha Aahara (incompatible food). In this article an honest effort has been made to identify incompatible food in day-to-day dietary habits and categorize them into Samyoga (combination), Samskara (preparation) and Parihara (rules intake for) Viruddha (incompatible) according to classics and its untoward effect on immune, cellular metabolism, endocrine, digestive, circulatory systems leading to different life style disorders.

Keywords: Aahara vidhi vidhana, Viruddha Aahara, Hita and Ahita Aahara, Samyoga, Samskara, Parihara Viruddha

Cite this Article

Manu M, P Sudhakar Reddy, Sowmya MN. An Analytical Review on Ahita Aahara w.s.r. to Viruddha Aahara (Food Incompatibility). Research and Reviews: A Journal of Ayurvedic Science, Yoga and Naturopathy. 2017; 4(1): 9–16p.