The Best Way To Detox

Ayambil fast, also known as Ayambil Oli, is a traditional practice of the Jain community where individuals follow a strict diet of simple foods and avoid all kinds of luxuries and worldly pleasures. During the ayambil fast is a one-sitting fast involving the eating of only tasteless foods. One does not take food containing or prepared with “Vigai” (perversion). The foods which change the natural tendencies of body, mind and soul and pervert them are Vigai. Besides, it can be followed for one to nine days and sometimes for months and years together. The fast has several benefits for both physical and spiritual health.

There are two broad divisions of Vigai –

• LAGHU VIGAI

  includes 6 types – jaggery/sugar, milk, clarified butter/ ghee, curds, oil and fried food items are given up.

• MAHA VIGAI

   includes 4 types – butter/ makhan, honey, non-vegetarian foods including eggs meat-fish and alcohol.

There are hardly any researches which study the changes that an individual undergoes during or as a result of ayambil fasting. However, after reading some studies on fasting and detoxification, one can infer that:

Detoxification

The simple and light diet followed during the Jain Ayambil fast may help in detoxification of the body by eliminating toxins and harmful substances. According to a study published in the International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research, fasting helps in removing accumulated toxins from the body and promotes overall health.

Digestive health

The simple and easily digestible foods consumed during the fast help in improving digestive health. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, fasting can help in reducing the symptoms of digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and improve gut health.

Weight management

The Ayambil fast involves consuming simple and low-calorie foods, which can help in managing weight. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy for weight management.

 Mental clarity

Fasting can help in improving mental clarity and focus. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, fasting can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age related cognitive decline.

Spiritual benefits

The Jain Ayambil fast is primarily a spiritual practice aimed at promoting self-discipline and detachment from worldly pleasures. According to a study published in the International Journal of Yoga, fasting can help in promoting spiritual growth and mindfulness.

Why is it important to avoid meat and oily foods?

Reduced risk of chronic diseases

A diet high in meat and oily foods has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, a plant-based diet was associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease compared to a diet that included meat.

Improved weight management

Consuming high amounts of meat and oily foods can contribute to excess calorie intake and weight gain. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, reducing meat intake can lead to weight loss and improved body composition.

Reduced environmental impact

The production of meat and oily foods can have a significant impact on the environment, including greenhouse gas emissions and water use. According to a study published in the Journal Science, reducing meat consumption could have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving sustainability.

Improved digestion

Oily foods can contribute to digestive issues such as acid reflux and bloating. According to a study published in the Journal Gut, a plant-based diet was associated with improved gastrointestinal health and reduced inflammation.

It's important to note that not all types of meat and oily foods are equally harmful. Some people argue that certain fishes, such as salmon and sardines, are beneficial as they contain omega-3 fatty acids. However, due to the increasing risk of mercury poisoning and PCB contamination, it can be harmful too. Besides, study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that consuming more than three servings of fatty fish per week was associated with an increased risk irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Hence, it is not a preferrable choice.

Why is it important to avoid spicy food during Ritu sandhi?

According to Ayurveda, Ritu sandhi refers to the transitional period between seasons, which is believed to be a time of vulnerability and imbalance in the body. During this time, it is recommended to follow certain dietary guidelines to support the body's natural healing processes and maintain balance.

One of the dietary guidelines during Ritu sandhi is to avoid or limit the consumption of foods containing spices. This is because spicy foods can increase internal heat in the body and aggravate Pitta dosha, which is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda. Excessive heat and Pitta imbalance can lead to various health issues, such as inflammation, acidity, and skin problems.

During Ritu sandhi, the body is believed to be in a sensitive and delicate state, and consuming spicy foods can disrupt the body's natural equilibrium. Therefore, Ayurveda recommends avoiding or limiting spicy foods during this time and opting for cooling and soothing foods that support balance, such as whole grains, pulses and herbal teas.

Why does Ayurveda recommend consuming dry and light foods during Ritu Sandhi especially in Chaitra month (3rd Week of March – 3rd Week of April)?

As per the Ayurvedic texts, having light and dry food during the Chaitra month helps in balancing the Kapha dosha, which tends to get aggravated during the spring season. The Kapha dosha is responsible for maintaining the body's immunity, but when it gets imbalanced, it can cause various health issues like cough, cold, and congestion, commonly experience during this time of the year.

In the ancient Ayurvedic scripture "Ashtanga Hridayam," it is mentioned in the Uttara Sthana 39th chapter verse 14-15:

संस्कृ त में: चैत्रस्य तु वर्षस्य मधुराम्ललवणाहारम् ।

कफवातप्रकोपघ्नं लघुसूक्ष्मफलादि वैरस्यम् ॥ १४॥

नवनीतमधुसदपषष्णा दतक्तकटुकसारतः ।

शीतशुक्रपथ्यादन च समाश्नीयािनासकृ त् ॥ १५॥

This verse states that during the Chaitra month, one should consume foods that are madhura (sweet), amla (sour), and lavan (salty) in taste in moderation. It also suggests avoiding heavy, oily, and spicy foods and instead opting for light, dry, and easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, lentils, and grains.

In summary, Ayurveda recommends having light and dry food during the Chaitra month to balance the Kapha dosha and maintain overall health and wellness during the transitional period.

Conclusion

In conclusion, medical fraternity needs a direction towards studying the Jain Ayambil fast and once the benefits are known, it shall help the nutrition community to recommend such fasting for multiple clinical conditions.