The Best Way To Consume Dry Fruits : It is a universally known fact that dried fruits and nuts pack a punch when it comes to essential nutrients. In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic medicine, dry fruits hold a special place due to their ability to balance the doshas and promote overall well-being. Interestingly, ayurvedic science also recommends unique ways to consume dry fruits to reap the maximum benefit from them. To know more about these special ways, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, who shared some of the best dry fruits according to Ayurveda and the best methods to consume them.

Best Dry Fruits According to Ayurveda

“In Ayurveda, we believe that an individual’s constitution is influenced by their unique combination of doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata refers to all the movements in the body, Pita refers to the body’s metabolism, and Kapha is the nourishing element of the body. Dry fruits can be used to balance these doshas,” informed Dr Chaudhary. Sharing the dry fruits and nuts most revered in Ayurveda, he listed:

• Almonds (Vata-Pacifying): Almonds are packed with nutrients and healthy fats, making them a great choice for balancing body movements or Vata.
• Cashews (Pitta-Pacifying): Cashews are cooling and soothing for Pitta dosha. They can boost your body’s metabolism and thus aid in weight management. Consume them in moderation to avoid excess heat.
• Raisins (Vata-Pacifying): Raisins are sweet and hydrating, making them ideal for Vata dosha. You can take them with your morning porridge or as snacks.
• Dates (Vata-Pacifying): Dates are rich in natural sugars and provide a quick energy boost. They are particularly beneficial for Vata individuals when consumed in moderation.
• Apricots (Vata-Pacifying): Apricots are nutritious and their sweetness helps balance Vata dosha.
• Walnuts (Kapha-Pacifying): Walnuts have a slightly warming quality and are suitable for Vata doshas as well. However, they are brimming with Omega-3 fatty acids, which makes them effective against Kapha doshas.

Ayurveda Tips For Consuming Dry Fruits

“Ayurvedic science suggests that dry fruits and nuts should be eaten in a certain way. These methods can boost the nutritional benefits they have to offer and actually protect the body from the heat-producing properties of dried fruits,” advised Dr Chaudhary. He listed a set of steps that you can follow to gain maximum benefits out of dry fruits:

• Soak Before Eating: To enhance the digestibility of dry fruits, soak them in water overnight. This softens them and makes them easier to digest. Additionally, the soaked water also helps to balance the warmth of dried fruits and nuts.
• Seasonal Variations: Ayurveda emphasises consuming fruits and dry fruits that are in season. This ensures that you are in harmony with nature and receive the maximum benefits.
• Mindful Portion Control: While dry fruits are nutritious, they are also calorie-dense. Consume them in moderation to avoid overloading your system with excess calories.
• Combining with Spices: You can enhance the digestibility of dry fruits by adding a pinch of spices like cardamom or ginger, as these spices aid digestion.
• Avoid Combining with Dairy: Ayurvedic science suggests avoiding the combination of dry fruits with dairy products as they can be heavy to digest.
• Personalised Approach: Finally, it is essential for you to be mindful of your Prakriti, or constitution, and Vikriti, or imbalances, when choosing and consuming dry fruits. Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalised guidance.

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