Autumn & Ayurveda
Autumn, in India, brings a shift in weather patterns. Ayurveda recognizes this as Vata season, marked by increased dryness and instability. The key? Consuming
warm, wholesome meals that support immunity. Embrace this seasonal shift by choosing foods that are grounding and nourishing. This dietary approach, in line with Ayurvedic principles, seeks to balance the body and boost immunity. Incorporating ghee, warming spices, and easily digestible grains is central to this seasonal practice. Warm beverages, like ginger tea and warm milk with nutmeg, are also beneficial for relaxation and sleep, preparing you for the colder days ahead.
Seasonal Eating Explained
Eating seasonally, a concept deeply rooted in Ayurveda and modern nutrition, has numerous benefits. It is said that seasonal produce offers more nutrients and flavour than out-of-season alternatives. Autumn vegetables like carrots, turnips, and sweet potatoes are rich in fibre and slow-digesting carbohydrates. Consuming seasonal produce promotes gut health, strengthens the immune system, and lowers the chances of chronic diseases. In the context of Ayurveda, the Ritucharya (seasonal routine) emphasizes warm, oily, and grounding foods to balance the Vata dosha. These foods prevent dryness, ease anxiety, and support digestion during the autumn months.
Ghee & Sesame Oil
Ghee and sesame oil are great ingredients for maintaining joint lubrication and skin softness. Adding a spoonful of ghee to your daal or rice can do wonders for your body. The use of sesame oil can be a great way to improve the moisture balance of your skin. These oils, when used regularly, keep the body warm and hydrated during the dry and cool autumn months. According to Ayurvedic practices, ghee and sesame oil are known to pacify the Vata dosha, which is a must during the autumn. These ingredients can be easily incorporated into your daily meals to promote overall well-being and a feeling of warmth.
Warming Spices
Spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cumin, fennel, and nutmeg are not just flavour enhancers; they contribute to digestion and body warmth. These spices are known for their digestive properties and their ability to keep the body warm and comfortable. Adding a pinch of these spices to your meals or drinks during the autumn can significantly improve your overall well-being. Spices like ginger and cinnamon provide warmth, while cumin and fennel aid in digestion. Nutmeg, with its soothing properties, adds an extra touch of comfort, making them essential additions to the autumn diet.
Easy to Digest Grains
Grains such as basmati rice, oats, and millets are easy to digest and provide nourishment, making them perfect for lighter, yet sustaining meals. These grains contribute to feelings of fullness without causing any heaviness, making them ideal for the autumn. Grains are a staple food in India, and they are easily incorporated into various recipes. They give the body warmth and also support optimal digestion, both essential in this season. Their versatility allows them to be part of numerous dishes, from simple bowls to elaborate meals, ensuring both comfort and nourishment during autumn.
Warm Beverages
Warm beverages such as ginger tea, fennel water, and warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg before bed help you relax and sleep better. These drinks support relaxation and better sleep, making them an essential part of the evening routine during the autumn. Sip on these warming drinks as they calm your nerves. Warm drinks have long been acknowledged for their therapeutic effects, helping to soothe the body and mind. Adding nutmeg to warm milk further enhances its sleep-inducing properties. These warm drinks are a great way to prepare for a restful night, supporting both physical and mental well-being during the colder months.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, amaranth leaves, and fenugreek leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice during autumn. Spinach is a great source of iron and vitamin C, and it helps in boosting immunity. Amaranth leaves are rich in iron and calcium and support bone health. Fenugreek leaves are warming and support digestion. These leafy greens are easily incorporated into various dishes, from stir-fries to dals and parathas. They not only provide essential nutrients but also aid digestion, which is very important in the autumn.
Root Vegetables
Vegetables like cabbage, turnips, sweet potatoes, and carrots are a boon in autumn. Cabbage and turnips have vitamin K and cholesterol-lowering compounds. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which supports immunity. Carrots are also rich in beta-carotene and support eye health and immunity. These root vegetables provide much-needed warmth and nutrients, helping the body cope with the seasonal changes. From stir-fries to curries, these veggies can be incorporated into your meals.
Other Autumn Foods
Cauliflower, eggplant, apples, mushrooms, and sesame seeds are also ideal foods for an autumn diet. Cauliflower is known for its vitamin C content and is great for immunity and digestion. Eggplant is rich in fibre and anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation and support gut health. Apples are rich in quercetin and catechin, antioxidants that fight inflammation. Mushrooms help fight the flu. Sesame seeds are rich in calcium and healthy fats, perfect for joint health and warmth. They can be added to soups, stir-fries, or enjoyed as a snack. These foods, when combined, provide a holistic approach to dietary changes during autumn.
Foods to Avoid
During the autumn, certain foods should be avoided to maintain optimal health and well-being. Raw salads are generally cooling and can be difficult to digest during this season. Iced drinks can also disrupt digestion and increase dryness. Dry snacks like chips and namkeen can aggravate Vata and lead to bloating or fatigue. Staying away from these foods during autumn is vital to ensure that your digestive system functions smoothly and your body is well-equipped to deal with the changing weather. Focusing on foods that provide warmth, are easy to digest, and are nutrient-rich can keep you energized and healthy during autumn.
Bonus Spices
Cinnamon, turmeric, cloves, and nutmeg are spices that provide warmth and enhance the taste of food. Cinnamon and turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves and nutmeg not only add flavour but also offer health benefits. These spices are easy to incorporate into daily meals to boost your overall well-being. Use them in your morning tea, add them to your curries, or sprinkle them on your desserts to make the most of their goodness. These spices provide a delightful warmth and also help in balancing the body during the autumn.
Eating with the Seasons
Eating with the seasons is a long-standing practice, rooted in both Ayurvedic principles and modern nutritional science. Seasonal produce provides better flavour and more nutrients than out-of-season alternatives. Root vegetables keep you energized. These practices align with the Ayurvedic Ritucharya, which recommends warm, oily, and grounding foods to maintain balance. By incorporating these desi foods into your diet, you can embrace the essence of autumn. So, prepare yourself for a comfortable, healthy, and nourishing autumn.
