”Ahārasya prasādāt dhātu-samyam”
आहारस्य प्रसादात् धातु-सम्यम्
“Proper food brings balance to the body’s elements.”
Sushruta Samhita, Sutrasthana 46.20
This verse emphasises the vital role of food in maintaining health and harmony within the body. The Sanskrit terms in this verse provide deeper insights:
• “Ahārasya” (आहारस्य) – Food and nutrition
• “Prasādāt” (प्रसादात्) – Purity, clarity, and beneficial effects
• “Dhātu-Samyam” (धातु-सम्यम्) – Balance of the seven bodily tissues (Dhātus)
In Ayurveda, health is defined as a perfect balance of the three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), the seven Dhātus (tissues), and Agni (digestive fire). Proper nutrition is the foundation of good health because it nourishes all these aspects.
Scientific Correlation: How Proper Nutrition Maintains Balance in the Body
Modern science confirms that a well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining physiological balance, preventing diseases, and ensuring longevity.
Food Directly Affects the Seven Dhātus (Body Tissues)
According to Ayurveda, the body consists of seven Dhātus, which are nourished sequentially through digestion. These Dhātus correspond to different tissues in modern physiology:
- Rasa Dhātu (Blood plasma, lymphatic system): Malnutrition, dehydration, weakened immunity
- Rakta Dhātu (Red Blood Cells RBC): Anemia, poor circulation, inflammation
- Māmsa Dhātu (Skeletal & cardiac muscles): Muscle weakness, fatigue
- Meda Dhātu (Fat or Adipose tissue): Obesity, cholesterol imbalance
- Asthi Dhātu (Bones, joints): Osteoporosis, arthritis
- Majjā Dhātu (Bone Marrow, brain, Nerves): Cognitive decline, nerve disorders
- Shukra Dhātu (Reproductive Tissue): Infertility, hormonal imbalances
Scientific Evidence: Research in The Journal of Nutrition (2021) confirms that deficiencies in key nutrients (proteins, vitamins, minerals) impair tissue function, leading to diseases like anemia, osteoporosis, and immune dysfunction.
Example: A diet deficient in iron and B12 weakens Rakta Dhātu (blood), causing anemia, fatigue, and poor oxygen circulation.
The Right Food Maintains Dosha Balance (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
Ayurveda categorises food based on how it affects the three Doshas:
• Vata (Air & Space): Needs warm, moist, and nourishing foods (soups, ghee, cooked grains) to prevent dryness and nervous disorders.
• Pitta (Fire & Water): Needs cooling, hydrating, and less spicy foods (fruits, leafy greens) to avoid acidity and inflammation.
• Kapha (Earth & Water): Needs light, warm, and dry foods (lentils, steamed vegetables) to prevent sluggishness and obesity.
Scientific Evidence: A study in Nutrients (2022) found that dietary choices influence metabolic balance, gut microbiota, and inflammation, affecting overall health and disease risk.
Example: A Kapha-dominant person consuming excess dairy and fried food may develop obesity, cholesterol imbalance, and sluggish digestion, just as Ayurveda warns.
Nutrient-Rich Food Supports Digestive Fire (Agni) and Gut Health
• Ayurveda states that strong Agni (digestive fire) is essential for proper digestion, absorption, and assimilation of nutrients.
• Modern science recognizes the importance of gut microbiota in digestion, immunity, and mental health.
• Scientific Evidence: Studies in Gut Microbes (2021) confirm that a balanced diet rich in fibre, prebiotics, and whole foods improves gut health, preventing inflammatory diseases and metabolic disorders.
Example: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods enhances gut health, whereas junk food weakens digestion and causes inflammation.
Poor Diet Causes Chronic Diseases
Modern dietary habits—processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats—disrupt bodily balance and lead to diseases.
- Processed foods, trans fats: Heart disease, obesity
- Excess sugar, refined carbs: Diabetes, inflammation
- Deficiency of vitamins & minerals: Weak immunity, osteoporosis
- Chemical-laden food: Cancer, hormonal imbalances
Scientific Evidence: A review in The Lancet (2022) found that poor diet contributes to 70% of non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Example: A diet high in junk food causes insulin resistance, metabolic disorders, and chronic inflammation, proving that improper food disturbs body balance.
Present-Day Significance: How to Apply This Wisdom
In today’s world, food choices determine health, energy, and longevity. Here’s how we can apply this Ayurvedic principle:
Eat a Balanced, Natural Diet: Prefer whole, plant-based, and home-cooked meals over processed foods.
Eat According to Dosha & Season: Adapt diet to personal constitution and seasonal changes.
Avoid Overeating & Junk Food: Choose nutrient-dense foods and practice mindful eating.
Improve Digestion (Agni): Include ginger, cumin, and probiotics to strengthen digestion.
Stay Hydrated & Eat Fresh: Drink warm water and consume freshly prepared meals instead of stale food.
By following these principles, we restore balance in our body, prevent diseases, and live a healthier, longer life.
Conclusion
The verse “Ahārasya prasādāt dhātu-samyam” (Proper food brings balance to the body’s elements) teaches a timeless truth: food is not just for taste but for nourishing and balancing the body. Both Ayurveda and modern research prove that the right diet prevents diseases, strengthens immunity, and enhances overall well-being.
By making mindful dietary choices, we align with nature, improve digestion, maintain tissue balance, and enjoy vibrant health.
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