A healthy immune system can protect us from infections and ailments. The Ministry of Ayush, as part of its ‘Ayush for Immunity’ campaign, has highlighted five dietetic rules as per Dinacharya (daily routines) principle of Ayurveda to help in optimal functioning of our digestive and immune systems:-

‘Dinacharya’ is a Sanskrit word made up of ‘din’ meaning day and ‘charya’ meaning activity. It is a daily routine designed to maintain and connect us to our circadian rhythms or the internal body clock. The following are the five dietetic directives:-

n  Eat only when hungry

n  Eat as per digestive capability, not more nor less

n  Take freshly cooked warm food

n  Include easily digestible foods as it helps the digestive system function better.

n  Have dinner within three hours after sunset or within 8 pm.

The ministry, in its Twitter handle, further explained why Ayurveda is a good option in disease prevention and treatment.

“According to Ayurveda, disease is caused due to imbalances among the body, mind, consciousness, and the environment. The treatment would therefore aim at certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies to regain the said balance. Ayurveda treatment typically involves an internal purification process, followed by a special diet, herbal remedies, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation.

“The exact procedure is finalising after evaluating the patient’s constitution and other relevant factors. The basic principles of Ayurveda include the concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body's constitution (prakriti), and life forces (doshas). Ayurvedic treatments aim to eliminate impurities, reduce symptoms, increase resistance to disease, reduce worry, and increase harmony in life,” it said.