EATING ACCORDING TO YOUR DOMINANT NOSTRIL: DOES THIS AYURVEDIC PRACTICE WORK?

The dominance of one nostril over the other influences physiological functions, including digestion, says Dr AV Srinivasan (Source: Freepik)

Did you know that the ancient teachings of Ayurveda prescribe eating food according to nostril dominance? 

In a recent video, a content creator Puneet Nahata elaborated upon this practice. According to Ayurveda, he said, our nostrils represent energy centers -- one associated with the sun (right nostril) and the other with the moon (left nostril). 

The idea is that before eating, you should check which nostril is more active. If the left nostril is dominant, it suggests that moon energy is active, and you should consume liquids like tea, coffee, and water instead of solid foods. Conversely, if the right nostril is dominant, indicating sun energy, then you can eat solid foods like rice, grains, and vegetables. The claim is that this practice can aid digestion.

To delve deeper into this intriguing concept, professor Dr AV Srinivasan, chairman of Sri Paripoorna Sanathana Ayurveda Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore Rural, explores the validity and benefits of eating according to the dominant nostril.

 

Harmonising nostril dominance: Ayurvedic insights into digestive health

Dr Srinivasan agrees that Ayurveda associates nostril dominance with the flow of energy in the body. “According to this tradition, the right nostril is linked with the 'pingala' energy channel, representing warmth, activity, and digestion. In contrast, the left nostril corresponds to the 'idea' channel, associated with coolness, rest, and assimilation,” he explains. 

The dominance of one nostril over the other influences physiological functions, including digestion. Dietary choices are believed to align with nostril dominance to support optimal digestion and overall health. 

For instance, he says, consuming heavier, warming foods is recommended when the right nostril is dominant, which enhances digestive fire. Conversely, lighter, cooling foods are suggested to balance the system when the left nostril is dominant. This practice aims to harmonise bodily energies for improved well-being. 

Are there specific times of the day when one nostril tends to be more dominant than the other?

Ayurveda suggests that nostril dominance alternates throughout the day in a cyclical pattern, Dr Srinivasan informs. Generally, the dominance of the right nostril is associated with daytime and activity, while the left nostril is dominant during nighttime and rest. 

This cyclical pattern typically follows a roughly two-hour interval, known as the ultradian rhythm. However, he says that the exact timing of nostril dominance can vary from person to person and may be influenced by lifestyle, diet, and overall health. Observing one's bodily rhythms and responses can help tailor dietary choices and lifestyle practices for optimal well-being. 

The idea is that before eating, you should check which nostril is more active. (Source: Freepik)

Improvement in digestion 

Dr Srinivasan confirms, “Ayurvedic traditions, which involve harmonising dietary selections with nostril dominance, are believed to support overall digestion and well-being. By synchronising mealtimes with the dominant nostril, it's thought to optimise the body's natural rhythms and enhance digestive processes.”

However, he admits that the effectiveness of this practice in improving digestion can vary from person to person. Individual constitution, lifestyle, and overall health affect how one responds to these practices.

If a person has their left nostril dominant at night, should they still consume caffeinated beverages?

“If someone finds that their left nostril is dominant at night, indicating a more restful state, it's advisable to consume lighter, easily digestible foods closer to bedtime. While liquids like chai or coffee may be options, avoiding caffeine before sleeping is generally recommended as it can interfere with restful sleep,” he admits.

Instead, he recommends considering alternatives such as herbal teas (non-caffeinated), Warm milk infused with a dash of nutmeg or cardamom, light soups, or small portions of easily digestible snacks like fruit or nuts. These options can help promote relaxation and support digestion without causing disruptions to sleep.

Advice or suggestions for individuals looking to integrate this practice into their daily lives

Here are some guidelines for incorporating the practice of aligning dietary choices with nostril dominance into your daily routine, as prescribed by Dr Srinivasan: 

Observe Your Nostril Dominance: Pay attention to the dominant nostril throughout the day. You can do this by noticing which nostril feels more open or active. 

Plan Meals Accordingly: Align your meals with the dominant nostril. For example, opt for heavier, warming foods when the right nostril dominates during the daytime. When the left nostril dominates in the evening, choose lighter, easier-to-digest options. 

Stay Mindful: Be mindful of how foods affect your body and digestion. Observe any shifts in energy levels, digestion, or overall well-being when you adjust your diet based on nostril dominance. 

Listen to Your Body: Listen to your body's signals and adjust your dietary choices accordingly. If you feel heavy or sluggish after consuming a particular type of food, consider making adjustments for better digestion. 

Incorporate Ayurvedic Principles: Incorporate Ayurvedic principles into your daily habits, like integrating mindful eating seasonally, practising mindful eating, and balancing your meals with all six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter, and astringent). 

As for precautions or contraindications, individuals with certain health conditions or dietary restrictions should proceed cautiously and consult with a healthcare provider or Ayurvedic practitioner before implementing this practice.

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2024-04-16T14:07:12Z dg43tfdfdgfd