1.
Eating large quantities of foods that share vata elements (space/akasa
and air/vayu)- dry, light, airy and gas forming: fruits and vegetables
such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, lettuce, mushroom, parsley,
peas, bell pepper (capsicum), spinach, corn, lentils, white or rye breads,
soya products, yeast based spreads, smoked foods and dried fruit. Very
cold foods or drinks also disturb vata.
2. Eating
while anxious or depressed increases vata.
3. During
periods when conditions are naturally high in vata such as when it is
cold, dry or windy, just prior to sunrise and sunset, and during middle
to old age, vata can become more easily disturbed.
4.
Indulging in activities that are similar to vata in nature, including
travelling, watching too much television, exposure to high levels of noise,
late nights and excessive physical, mental or sexual activity.
Remedies to balance vata
1.Avoiding
activities that stimulate vata is suggested. A regular routine and adequate
rest and relaxation is necessary.
2. Foods that
are mainly pitta (salty, spicy) or kapha (dense, sweet) should be included
in the diet. This includes most fresh fruits, pasta, rice, dairy products,
avocado, brown breads, nuts in moderation.
3. To alleviate aggravated
vata, consuming substances opposite in nature is recommended.
Therefore, rather than eating light,
airy, dry and cold foods, those which are hot, oily, dense and heavy are
substituted.
