New Delhi: Yoga is an ancient practice that has been used since ages in India. Apart from the physical practice of yoga, a proper diet is also crucial. Do you know that yoga and diet go hand in hand, hence balancing the body and mind, and supporting the emotional and physical well-being at the same time. Only doing yoga doesn’t really help to lose weight or get a holistic approach to well-being. Prioritise making mindful dietary choices that work in synergy with your yoga goals.
In conversation with News9, Manisha Gaur, Clinical Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator, MediBuddy V Health said, “Nutrition is an intrinsic part of Yogic practices. Yoga and Ayurveda recommend the inclusion of Satvic foods in the daily diet which are alkaline in nature and easily digestible. Vegetarian foods, high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and freshly made are believed to work wonders for your energy levels, happiness, and calmness, and bring mental clarity. Such a diet also works appropriately for building stamina and flexibility to perform Yoga asanas with ease.
Understanding the Relationship: Yoga and Food
Yoga aims to bring the body and the mind into equilibrium. A balanced diet is also crucial for good health in general. The advantages of combining these two can be significant.
Energy Levels: The body receives the proper nutrients from a balanced diet to maintain a high energy level. To efficiently execute asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), you need energy, whether practising at a yoga school or home. When we eat before doing yoga, we should avoid heavy meals. This can make one feel uncomfortable and slow. It is advisable to avoid eating at least two hours before yoga practice, preferably in the morning when metabolism is high.
After yoga, eating nutrient-rich foods helps the body recover. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are nutrient-rich foods that can increase energy and enable one to practise yoga for longer periods.
Analysing Ability: Maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet not only supports physical strength but also enhances cognitive performance, mental focus, and clarity, crucial for mastering yoga. Incorporating food rich in vitamins like
Vitamin A, C, E & Omega 3 Fatty acids such as milk, citrus seasonal foods, almonds, and walnuts) and antioxidants like berries, avocados, and beetroots can significantly improve alertness and optimise brain function, thereby maximising the benefits of yoga,
Gut Health: Yoga practitioners need a healthy digestive system to practise. A healthy, functional digestive system enhances yoga’s aid in detoxifying the body. Instead of relying on spices, consider incorporating anti -inflammatory herbs like ashwagandha, black pepper, curcumin, and fenugreek into your meals. Consuming fibre-rich food like fruits and vegetables helps improve digestive health.
Yoga’s Favourite Foods:
• Veggies and Fruits: You must include veggies and fruits in your diet because they are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Include a range of fruit and vegetable colours in the diet every day.
• Complete Grains: Long yoga sessions require sustained energy, which whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats give. Additionally, they have vital nutrients and fibre that promote digestion.
• Seeds and nuts: Healthy fats, protein, and various minerals can all be found in nuts and seeds in large quantities. One should include foods like flax seeds, chia seeds, almonds, and walnuts in your daily diet.
• Low-fat protein: Protein is necessary for muscular strength and rehabilitation. If not a vegetarian, include lean protein sources such as tofu, lentils, and lean meats.
• Water: Practice depends on proper hydration because exhaustion and cramping from dehydration might interfere with your performance. Drinking water before and after yoga practices should become a habit.
Nutrition is an intrinsic part of Yogic practices. Yoga and Ayurveda recommend the inclusion of Satvic foods in the daily diet which are alkaline in nature and easily digestible. Expert shares role of diet in optimising the experience Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
