According to Ayurveda proper digestion and absorption of food and water are essential to maintain good health, while improper elimination of toxins (ama) from the body can lead to various health problems. Improper food combining, suppressing natural urges, insufficient water intake, a diet low in fiber, excessive meat consumption and lack of exercise amongst other reasons can lead to constipation and other digestive problems.
Here are some Ayurvedic tips to help with proper elimination and to avoid digestive problems:
:: Triphala (combination of three fruits - Amalaki, Bhibitaki and Haritaki) is probably the best Ayurvedic herbal compound for constipation. Triphala is a rejuvenative for the whole body. It balances all three Doshas.
:: Psyllium husk (sat isabgol in Sanskrit) can also be used with 1 cup of warm water before bedtime to help with constipation.
:: Tai Chi, Qi Gong and Yoga exercise to help improve circulation to remove waste from tissues, for proper oxygen exchange, stimulation of internal organs and mental clarity. Specific Yoga poses that can help proper elimination: spinal twist, bow, bridge, locust, forward bend, peacock, camel, cow and boat pose.
:: Meditation to help calm the body and mind and relieve stress. Repressed or unresolved emotions can be a root cause of improper digestion, absorption and elimination.
:: Drinking 16-32oz of warm water upon wakening to flush the kidneys, promote hydration and toxin elimination in the cells and tissues to the gastro-intestinal system. Making sure to keep the body hydrated throughout the day with room temperature to warm water.
:: Sitting on the toilet upon wakening (ideally Squatting). To retrain the nervous and gastro-intestinal system for eliminating at the appropriate time. Just as we “potty train” a child, we can retrain ourselves to have proper bowel moments. Squatting can be very helpful to facilitate the process of elimination. Pressure from the thighs on the abdomen gently aids in evacuation.
:: Eat foods according to seasons and your Prakruti (constitution). Avoid cold, dry, hard, rough foods (e.g. salads and most beans). These are difficult to digest especially in cold weather. Favor warm, moist and fiber rich diet (especially well cooked vegetables). Eating an apple after a meal, ripe bananas and prunes can also help with elimination.
:: Avoid inappropriate food combinations: no eating fruit or fruit juice at the same time as dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream. No melons with other foods. Avoid fish and milk.
:: Avoid canned, frozen or preserved foods. Eat fresh and seasonal foods.
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