In Ayurveda, diet, referred to as Ahara, is considered one of the three essential pillars of life, known as Trayopastambha. It plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing illness. Ancient Ayurvedic texts highlight the importance of diet in achieving the functional balance of the Tridoshas–Vata, Pitta, and Kapha–which are responsible for all physiological and psychological processes in the body. An imbalance among these doshas can result in disease, while their proper alignment promotes health and vitality. This review examines the diverse functions of Ahara in sustaining doshic equilibrium and supporting Swasthavritta, the Ayurvedic science focused on health maintenance and disease prevention. It discusses classical concepts such as Ahara Vidhi Vidhana (dietary guidelines), Agni (digestive fire), Viruddha Ahara (incompatible food pairings), as well as the dietary adjustments recommended in response to seasonal changes (Ritucharya) and daily routines (Dinacharya). In addition, this review incorporates modern scientific perspectives, drawing connections between Ayurvedic dietary principles and contemporary ideas such as personalized nutrition, circadian eating regimens, and gut microbiome health. By linking traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern nutrition science, the paper emphasizes the importance of individualized, mindful, and context-specific dietary practices in fostering doshic balance, enhancing digestion, and promoting long term wellness. The conclusions suggest that integrating Ayurvedic dietary principles into current preventive health strategies may provide a sustainable and comprehensive approach to overall health and well-being.
Tiwari et al. (Tue,) studied this question.