Dr. Ravishankar Polisetty, Pioneer of Poly Scientific Ayurveda offers a few nutrition tips for optimal health
As veganism gains popularity for its ethical and health benefits, the conversation is expanding to address wellness and holistic nutrition. According to the World Animal Foundation, there are around 88 million vegans globally. In India, about 11% of the population identifies as vegan.
However, rather than following a generic diet, vegans can achieve greater benefits by tailoring their plans to suit their body constitution. Dr Ravishankar Polisetty, the pioneer of Poly Scientific Ayurveda (PSA), highlights how Poly Scientific Ayurveda (PSA) can support a balanced vegan lifestyle. He shares insights on aligning veganism with the correct Ayurvedic principles to optimise health and well-being.
Here are five key Poly Scientific Ayurvedic tips Dr Polisetty recommends for vegans:
1. Tailor Your Diet to Your Dosha
Ayurveda focuses on individual body constitutions, or doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), to guide dietary choices for optimal health. According to Dr Polisetty, vegans should choose foods that suit their dosha. For example, individuals with a Vata constitution might benefit from warm, grounding foods such as cooked grains and healthy fats. Conversely, those with a Pitta constitution should focus on cooling, hydrating options like leafy greens and sweet fruit
2. Address Potential Nutrient Deficiencies
Though vegan diets are typically high in fibre and antioxidants, they may lack essential nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and iron. Dr Polisetty recommends nutrient-dense foods such as lentils, beans, tofu, and fortified plant-based milk to prevent deficiencies and maintain energy levels essential for day-to-day activities.
3. Support Digestive Health with Spices and Warm Foods
Raw and cold vegan foods may lead to digestive discomfort, especially for those with a Vata imbalance. Dr Polisetty advises these individuals to favour warm, cooked meals, incorporating spices such as ginger, cumin, and turmeric to promote digestion and reduce bloating. “The right spices can significantly enhance the body’s digestive capabilities, making the diet more effective and comfortable for those who might struggle with digestive sensitivities,” he explains.
4. Optimize Protein Intake with Plant-Based Sources
Maintaining muscle mass on a vegan diet requires intentional food choices. Dr Polisetty highlights protein-rich options such as lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, and nuts, which provide essential amino acids. These foods support muscle maintenance and overall health.
5. Personalize Your Diet with ‘Naadi Pareeksha’
Poly Scientific Ayurveda (PSA) leverages advanced diagnostic tools like ‘Naadi Pareeksha’ (pulse diagnosis) to assess an individual’s doshic balance. Dr. Polisetty suggests that by evaluating a person’s unique body constitution, PSA can personalize diet recommendations to support specific tissues and organs. “Naadi Pareeksha allows us to create a detailed dietary plan, ensuring that every vegan’s nutritional needs are met according to their doshic requirements,” he explains.
PSA’s holistic approach to a vegan diet offers valuable guidance for those seeking health through plant-based eating. With Ayurveda’s support, vegans can thrive on a diet that aligns with both their ethical beliefs and their body’s individual needs. By embracing mindful, personalized choices, Dr Polisetty highlights that vegans can achieve a balanced, fulfilling diet that supports long-term well-being.