Health Care - Ayurvedic solutions to cope with summer related health issues and recommended Aahaar

Dr Pashi Tikoo

Aahaar (diet) plays a vital role in maintaining our health and well-being throughout the year As the seasons change our dietary needs also change to adapt to the prevailing weather conditions. Summer is a season characterised by high temperatures and intense heat, which can affect our body and mind in various ways. According to Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine from India, following a summer-specific diet and lifestyle can help us cope with the heat and prevent summer related health issues In this article, we will explore the principles of Aahaar during summer and learn about effective Ayurvedic remedies to tackle common summer health problems.

Ayurveda recognizes that the body is composed of three doshas or biological energies -Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Summer is considered the season of Pitta, which governs metabolism, digestion, and energy production in the body Therefore, it is essential to keep Pitta dosha in balance (4) during this time Here are some key dietary guidelines for summer

Emphasise Cooling Foods Include a variety of fresh juicy fruits and vegetables in your diet Watermelon, cucumber, coconut water, mint, benefits and coriander are excellent choices as they help cool the body and hydrate it effectively Ayurveda firmly emphasises the intake of following taste. (रस) during summer ग्रीष्मकाल) Favour Bitter (FRI) Astringent (94) and Sweet (HB) Tastes These tastes have a cooling effect on the body. Bitter foods like bitter gourd (tell) and leafy greens, astringent foods like pomegranate and lentils, and sweet foods like. bottle gourd (f) Zucchini () ripe mangoes and dates(according to Ayurveda dates are cooling and soothing) are beneficial during summer.

Reduce Pitta Aggravating Foods Certain foods can increase Pitta dosha and cause imbalances Avoid or limit the consumption of spicy, oily and fried foods, as well as acidic foods like black coffee, red meat, and citrus foods Alcohol consumption and smoking too increase acidity resulting in aggravation of f (pit).

Stay Hydrated Dehydration is a common problem during summer. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. You can also include herbal infusions like rose water or mint tea for added cooling benefits. Opt for Lighter Meals (laghu aahar) Heavy meals can overload the digestive system and lead to discomfort. Instead, choose light, easily digestible meals Include whole grains like barley () and quinoa, steamed vegetables and soups in your diet. In addition to following a summer-specific diet. Ayurveda offers remedies for common health issues experienced during this season.

Sunburn Excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn, causing redness, pain, and inflammation of the skin. Apply aloe vera gel or sandalwood paste on the affected area for a soothing effect. Wear loose cotton clothes which helps to reduce sweating. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants like berries and leafy greens can also help in reducing inflammation.

Prickly Heat. Prickly heat or heat rash occurs when sweat ducts get blocked, leading to tiny red bumps on the skin. Keep the affected areas clean and dry. Apply a mixture of sandalwood powder and rose water or neem oil to soothe the rash and prevent infection

Heat Exhaustion When exposed to excessive heat, the body can experience symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. To recover from heat exhaustion, rest in a cool and shady place. Drink coconut water. buttermilk (3) or a mixture of cumin seeds and water to rehydrate and replenish aid digestion electrolytes.

Digestive Issues. Pitta imbalances during summer can cause digestive problems like acidity, indigestion, and diarrhoea Avoid spicy and oily foods. Instead, consume cooling spices like coriander, fennel and cardamom. Drink herbal teas like mint or chamomile (t) to aid digestion.

Insomnia. The heat can disrupt sleep patterns and cause insomnia. Practice cooling pranayama like Shitali pranayama (za प्राणायाम) and nadishodan pranayama Le anuloam-viloam) daily atleast for 10-20 mts .

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Courtesy:- Dr Pashi Tikoo and 2023 June Koshur Samachar