Do I have to be a vegetarian to follow an Ayurvedic lifestyle?
Classical Ayurvedic texts describe three types of foods – Sattvic, Rajasic and Tamasic. Sattvic foods consist of fresh, energizing foods such as leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, milk, yogurt, butter, honey and others. According to Ayurveda, Sattvic foods are recommended for everyone. Rajasic foods consist of hot and pungent foods such as meat, beans, chilies and more. A diet which includes more Rajasic foods is considered suitable only for those who engage in heavy physical work. Finally, a Tamasic diet includes fermented and highly processed foods, stale or old foods, and alcoholic drinks. A Tamasic diet is considered to be harmful to health and is not recommended for anyone. Ayurveda lays emphasis on diet and lifestyle routines for optimum health, and therefore, Sattvic food, moderate physical exercise, exposure to fresh air and sunlight are all recommended.
