Ayurvedic Dietetics in Mental Health: An Analytical Review

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental illness has become increasingly prevalent over the last decade, with one in eight adults experiencing mental health issues each year. This rise has led to greater interest in the relationship between diet and mental health, giving rise to the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry. This discipline emphasizes how dietary choices, and nutritional intake can significantly impact mental well-being and aims to support the treatment of mental health conditions through specific dietary and lifestyle changes. In this way, Ayurvedic dietary guidelines can hold great relevance today for promoting mental health and overall well-being. In Ayurveda, Ahara is recognized as a crucial aspect of health and is one of the three foundational pillars of the practice (Trayo-Upasthamba). The preventive and therapeutic principles of Ayurveda focus on Pathya Ahara and Vihara, which refer to a conducive diet and lifestyle regimen. Ayurveda provides comprehensive dietary guidelines, covering suitable food choices, compatible combinations, cooking methods, storage practices, dining environments, hygiene, and etiquette. A significant concept within Ayurveda is Viruddha Ahara, or food incompatibility, which is often cited as a primary cause of various mental disorders. The guidelines surrounding Pathya Ahara and Vihara address preventive, curative, and rehabilitative health aspects.