ABSTRACT
Human body requires food to provide energy for all life processes, growth, repair and maintenance. A balanced diet contains different types of foods in such quantities and proportions that the need of the body is adequately met. But without knowing proper dietary guidelines one cannot gain optimum benefit from the food consumed. In Ayurveda, Ahara forms the important component of life as it is included in the Tri-Upastambha (three pillars of life). Ayurveda describes Ahar vidhi vidhan in which many guidelines are given by Acharyas to modify digestion and to get the maximum benefit of the food that is being taken. By following these dietary guidelines one can improve his or her digestion and attain a good health and prevent many diseases arising due to faulty dietary habits. Ahara Vidhi Vidhan (Dietary Guidelines) is a unique concept of Ayurveda. This particular study deals with compilation and classification of Ahara Vidhi Vidhan described in Ayurvedic texts.
Keywords: Ahara Vidhi Vidhan, Dietary Guidelines, Dietary Rules, Dietetics.