As temperatures soar this summer, it’s not just the sun that’s turning up the heat. According to Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine with roots in India, the Pitta dosha—a fiery bodily energy—is also on the rise. This increase can lead to physical sweating and a simmering inner heat that manifests as restlessness, irritability, and digestive issues. But fear not: the right diet can help keep you cool and collected.From an Ayurvedic perspective, summer is not only the time when temperatures rise. It is also the time of the year when the Pitta dosha dominates. This can cause us to sweat heavily not only physically but also to boil inside. Inner restlessness, irritability, and digestive problems are common now. However, with the right diet, you can counteract this.
The Importance of your Diet in Ayurveda During Summer
In Ayurveda, diet is more than just sustenance—it’s a cornerstone of well-being. This holistic system views individuals as an intricate balance of body, mind, and soul. Maintaining equilibrium among these elements is essential, and a balanced diet plays a pivotal role in this harmony. Good nutrition supports digestion and metabolism, which are vital for a healthy body.
Ayurvedic dietary principles are grounded in the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether, and their impact on the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. During the summer, the fiery Pitta dosha often becomes excessive. To restore balance, Ayurveda recommends a diet that cools and calms this inner heat.
Staying Cool with Cooling Foods
On sweltering summer days, when Pitta’s fiery influence is strongest, Ayurveda advises us to consume cooling, easily digestible foods. These foods not only help us stay mentally composed but also keep our bodies feeling light and energized.
However, cooling foods in Ayurveda go beyond just ice-cold drinks or frozen treats. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which aligns closely with Ayurvedic principles, certain foods have inherent cooling properties. To balance Pitta, these foods should ideally be bitter, sweet, and astringent. Consider incorporating the following into your summer diet:
- Vegetables: Zucchini, broccoli, fennel, cucumber, Swiss chard, spinach, potatoes, artichokes, and various salad greens.
- Sweet Fruits: Grapes, figs, strawberries, sweet apricots, and watermelon.
- Herbs and Spices: Wild herbs, mint, lemon balm, basil, tarragon, and dill. Turmeric, coriander, cumin, and cardamom are also excellent choices. These spices not only have cooling effects but can also stimulate digestive fire (Agni).
It’s best to avoid heavy, fatty foods and those that are spicy, sour, or salty, as they can aggravate Pitta and hinder digestion. At your next barbecue, consider opting for steamed potatoes with a fresh salad over a heavy piece of meat.
Ayurveda Nutrition in Summer: Tips from Mandira Ahara Restaurant
Choosing the right foods is just one part of the equation. Proper preparation and combination are also crucial to maximizing their benefits. Markus Lengauer, the head chef at Mandira Ahara Restaurant, expertly integrates this knowledge into his culinary creations, delighting even the most discerning palates. Here are some of his simple yet effective tips:
Warm or Cooked Cooling Foods
Whenever possible, opt for warm or previously cooked meals featuring cooling ingredients. Cooking, steaming, or boiling food makes it more digestible. This rule applies to fruits as well. Raw food should be consumed in moderation, preferably not in the late afternoon or evening. A lukewarm lentil salad or a chilled soup is a great alternative.
Herbal Teas and Cucumber Water on Hot Days
Hydration is key during the heat. In addition to water, unsweetened herbal teas are ideal for keeping the body hydrated and cool. Enhance your water with cooling spices or essences. Traditionally, Ayurveda recommends adding cardamom and rose water for a cooling effect. For a local twist, try adding two slices of cucumber and a few fresh mint leaves to your water. The menthol in mint provides a refreshing internal coolness.
