Start your morning right: Simple daily habits for better health

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In today's fast-paced life, we often fail to pay attention to our bodies. This leads to premature fatigue and illness. Both Ayurveda and science emphasize the importance of paying close attention to our diet. Ayurveda states that our bodies are shaped by the type of food we eat.

According to Ayurveda, one should start the day with warm water. This replenishes the body's hydration and activates the digestive system. This strengthens agni (fire), the digestive power. Adding a little lemon to the water can further enhance the effect. This habit helps gently cleanse the body and can also be helpful in weight management.

While the food available in the market today may look delicious, it is detrimental to health. Science suggests that packaged food increases inflammation in the body, while Ayurveda considers it heavy and aggravates the doshas. Eating such food daily can lead to sluggishness. Eating fresh, simple, and less processed home-cooked food is beneficial for maintaining good health.

Meal timing also matters. Eating at regular times helps the body function in a consistent manner. This helps maintain blood sugar balance and prevents frequent hunger pangs. When there's a proper gap between meals, digestion is optimal and overeating is reduced.

Additionally, it's important to ensure your plate contains all the essential nutrients. Often, our plates contain bread or rice, but lack protein. Lentils, milk, yogurt, cheese, sprouted grains, fruits, and vegetables are essential for strengthening the body. These vegetables give the body the strength to fight illness, and adequate water keeps it refreshed.