If you or a loved one has ever been really sick, you will know that being healthy is one of the most important blessings in life. And if you’re like me, you hate going to the doctor. Alternative medicine shouldn’t substitute for your yearly check-up at the doctor’s office, but it can provide tips to keep you in balance and avoid common problems associated with your body type.
Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine which originated in India over 6,000 years ago. Ayurveda identifies three body types, or doshas, and how to eat/avoid certain foods because of the properties associated with your body type. The three Ayurvedic body types are Kapha, Pitta, and Vata.
Dr. Oz recently did a show on Alternative medicine featuring Ayurveda. Whether you love or hate him, he has valuable insights on Ayurveda. Take Dr. Oz’s Quiz to discover your body type!
Kapha is the most common of the body types. Common features include wide hips, thick hair, and a shorter, heavier stature. Kapha’s are emotionally stable and reliable. They also have great memories. Kaphas tend to experience sinus infections and congestion.
Those with the Pitta body types are of medium stature and have good muscle tone. Pitta’s have reddish complexions and tend to feel warm. Pittas also have high energy levels, strong digestions, and competitive natures. Out of balance, Pittas have a tendency to suffer from inflammatory conditions such as rashes and digestive problems like acid reflux. Pittas also become over-stressed and irritated because of their perfectionist and competitive personalities.
Vata is the third body type. Characteristics include a slender figure, angular bone structure, and a tendency to be cold. Vatas enjoy new experiences and change, but can be flighty and forgetful. Out of balance Vatas experience poor digestion and colds.
According to the experts on The Dr. Oz Show, eat these foods in order to address issues that commonly occur with people of your body type:
Kapha: Add garlic to your diet to help with congestion. Guggul, a herbal supplement, can be used to help boost your metabolism. Avoid cold drinks, desserts and sugary foods. Massages can also be used to treat circulation and reduce cellulite accumulation. And who wouldn’t want an excuse to get a massage?
Pitta: Eat cooling vegetables like cucumbers, kale, and lettuce. Eat juicy fruits like melons. Avoid acidic foods and drinks, particularly vinegar and alcohol.
Vata: Stick to a regular routine, eating and sleeping at approximately the same time each day. Eat warm foods like soup and cooked vegetables. Avoid sodas and raw vegetables. Hot, spiced milk at night can be a good way of relaxing and falling asleep.
By slightly changing your diet you can stay healthy and well-balanced, because who doesn’t want to look and feel their best?
?
Sources:
Meditation (photo): http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f2tDRTSDQXg/TEaLN2UEX3I/AAAAAAAAANA/wlPmMtjDQzM/s1600/woman-in-meditation.jpg
Massage (photo): http://nomoredirtylooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/massage_montagenet1.jpg
Spices (photo): http://www.travelspiritualindia.com/images/img-n-03.gif
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/ayurvedic-diet-how-eat-your-body-type
http://www.ayur.com/about.html