Abstract

REVISITING AYURVEDIC DIET IN THE ERA OF NUTRITION TRANSITION: A HOLISTIC PREVENTIVE STRATEGY AGAINST NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

*Mehak Saini, MD Scholar, Amrita Sharma

Abstract

The shift from traditional diets to contemporary, highly processed food systems is directly associated with an increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide. This article reviews the Ayurvedic dietary principles found in the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, and their applicability to modern nutrition. Cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, prepared foods, and dietary adjuvants are among the traditional Ayurvedic classifications of Ahara Varga that emphasize metabolic equilibrium, digestive energy (Agni), and balanced nutrition. On the other hand, modern diets high in highly processed foods are linked to lifestyle diseases and metabolic disorders. Ayurvedic dietary principles, combined with contemporary nutrition research, may offer a long-term preventive approach to reduce the risk of NCDs and improve overall health.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Ahara Varga, Nutrition Transition, Non-Communicable Diseases, Traditional Diet, Preventive Healthcare.