Kapha is the mind-body type in Ayurveda that represents the earth and water elements. Ayurveda is a system of healing and science that was developed in India 5,000 years ago by the ancient rishis (sages). Kaphas tend to be large, big-boned people with slow digestion and an aversion to exercise. For this reason, it may be difficult for a Kapha to lose weight. Kaphas are have steady energy levels when healthy, and are famous for their sweet tooth and mellow nature. If imbalanced, Kaphas may be at risk for hypertension or diabetes.
Instructions
1. Favor bitter, pungent, astringent, light, dry foods. Avoid or reduce heavy, sweet, oily foods. Eat smaller meals throughout the day that can be more easily digested, rather than two or three very large meals that may add to sluggish digestion and become kapha-aggravating.
2. Favor astringent fruits, like apples, apricots, berries, cherries, cranberries, dry figs, grapes, lemons, limes, peaches, pears, persimmons, prunes, raisins and strawberries.
3. Consume bitter and pungent vegetables, including artichoke, asparagus, beet greens, beets, bitter melon, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Burdock root, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, corn, dandelion greens, eggplant, fennel, garlic, green beans, kale, kohlrabi, leafy greens, mushrooms, parsley, onions, sweet and hot peppers, white potatoes, spinach, sprouts, cooked tomatoes, summer squash, turnip greens, watercress, wheatgrass and sprouts.
4. Add legumes: adzuki beans, black beans, chickpeas, red and brown lentils, lima beans, mung, Navy beans, dried peas, pinto beans, soy milk, tofu, tempeh and white beans. Consume dairy products like buttermilk, cottage cheese made from skim goat’s milk, ghee (in small amounts), unsalted goat’s cheese, skim goat’s milk and diluted yogurt.
5. Eat proteins like white chicken meat, eggs, freshwater fish, rabbit, shrimp, white turkey meat and venison. Favor oils such as corn, canola, sunflower, ghee and almond. For external use only, use sesame.
Tags: bitter pungent, goat milk, skim goat, skim goat milk
