Abstract

Dr. Priyanka Godara*, Dr. Sunayana Sharma and Dr. Anupam Pathak

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda defines normal health as a balanced state of Doshas, Dhatus, Agni, mala and happiness of Atma, Indriyas and Manas as well as the physical mental and social wellbeing. According to WHO’s definition of health “a state of physical mental and social wellbeing and not merely an absence of disease”. Proper nutrition is very essential for healthy life. Ahara (food) is the main source of nutrition. According to Ayurveda ahara is the most im- portant thing for healthy life and type of ahara we eat affect our body as well as mind. Nowadays, people are adopting sedentary lifestyle. Also, the craze for junk food is increasing in rural areas also. The change in food habit, lack of knowledge about proper nutrition are causative factors for many diseases. Ayurveda has mentioned about Astavidh ahar vidhi vishesh ayatan in which Acharyas has explained in detail about properties of food, effect of combination of different food articles, quantity of food to be consumed, properties of food substances according to their cultivation area, cooking procedure etc. These eight factors are most important ways to maintain healthy diet. It gives a fair idea about what? When? Why? How? and Which? Food material should be consumed for promotion of positive health. A proper knowledge of these Ahar vidhi vishesh ayatan will help in reducing disorders caused due to improper diet and help for healthy diet.