Foods to Avoid and to Enjoy - Traditional Yogic Diet

Yoga teaches us about the connection between what we eat and how we feel emotionally and physically. Therefore, it is vital to eat only natural, unprocessed fresh food that is as close to its original state as possible. Best to cook those foods that actually require cooking.
 
According to “Hatha Yoga Pradipika”, certain foods are injurious to a yoga practitioner. These include:
​

• bitter, sour, salty, hot, fermented or oily foods
• alcohol, fish, meat, curds
• strong spices and herbs including garlic and onion
• vegetables causing a burning sensation

 
“Hatha Yoga Pradipika” also recommends certain foods as beneficial to a yogi. These include:

• wheat
• rice and barley
• milk and butter
• sugar and honey
• dried ginger
• vegetables
• pure water
• well sweetened tonics

 
Traditionally, a yogic diet should consist of:

• fresh uncooked food
• fresh fruits and juices
• fresh vegetables
• wholegrain cereals
• nuts and seeds
• dried peas
• beans and lentils

 
Food should be eaten slowly, with full attention to eating, and chewing properly to aid digestion. We should eat in moderation, not too much or too often.
 
Meat should be avoided as it interferes with our spiritual development. Processed foods, filled with preservatives, additives and colorings are considered to be foodless foods as they are usually full of fat and sugar and they contain no vitamins or minerals. These should also be avoided as they provide the body with unnecessary calories, chemicals and toxins that are harmful.