Nutritional diet in Balyavasta - An Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract

In Ashtanga Ayurveda, Kaumarya Bhritya has been considered as important specialty. Kaumarya Bhritya deals with the proper growth and development of the healthy child as well as treatment of the diseased child. Nutrition plays central role in growth and development of the child. Initial 6 months the baby is nourished with exclusive breast feeding, later periods only breast milk is not sufficient to provide the nutritional needs of growing baby. After 6 months, introduction of food supplements (semi-solid foods) along with breast feeding is necessary (to provide adequate and appropriate supplements) for proper growth and development and to prevent malnutrition. Introduce fruits and vegetables, which are rich source of macro and micro nutrients, hence help in growth and development of child, Prevent many diseases. After two years start normal diet. So Ayurveda gives importance on good nutrition at every stage of life, in order to maintain health. This article highlights Ayurvedic concepts of nutritional practice in Balyavasta.