Abstract

NUTRITIONAL DISCIPLINE IN AYURVEDA: PROSPECTIVE FOR TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH

N. Srikanth, N. Haripriya, Devesh Tewari* and A. K. Mangal

ABSTRACT

The high end of medical science is the preservation of health and it can be attained in two ways, first of all by eradicating the diseases, which may invade the body; secondly by due observation of such rules as would keep away the diseases. These rules are no less important than the treatment of diseases and method of cure. The prerequisites to attain this include wholesome diet, conservation of environment, congenial social and cultural atmosphere. Diet (ahara) is an essential factor for the maintenance of life. Though the science of nutrition at the present times evolved as an elaborate and organized subject of study, contemporary perspective mull over gross components of diet like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, water etc. While Ayurveda –the ancient science of life emphasizes on diversified aspects of dietetics and nutrition viz. quality, quantity, processing methods,
rationale of combination of food articles, emotional aspects, nature of the consumer, geographical & environmental conditions etc. which are pivotal in preservation and promotion of health and prevention of disease. Health-promoting regime (pathya vyavastha) is the hall mark of Ayurvedic therapeutics; specific diet and lifestyle guidelines are always prescribed along with the drugs and therapies to facilitate restoration of homoeostatic bio-mechanisms (dhatu-samyata) and wellbeing. Ayurveda elaborate about different dietary regimens including recopies advocated for health promotion, prevention of illness and also prescribed for management of diseases as well which further provide a great scope for the development of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements.

Keywords: Ayurveda, food, nutrition, pathya, dietary supplements.