Scientific Research on Maharishi Ayurveda

nutrition > nutrition study 1

Nutrition Insight #1

Title
Nutritional Insights From Maharishi Ayurveda

Publication
Journal of Applied Nutrition, Vol. 48, Nos. 1 and 2, pp. 34-41, 1996.

Author
Hari M. Sharma, MD, FRCPC.

Conducted at
College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210

Summary
Major changes are needed in the health care arena to solve the current health care crisis. With the growing emphasis on prevention of disease, nutritional science can be a major part of these changes. However, a new paradigm is needed to address individual metabolic differences and seasonal variations in dietary needs. Maharishi Ayurveda (MAV), a comprehensive system of natural health care, provides this paradigm. MAV addresses differences in individual physiological functioning (Prakriti) and imbalances in the physiology (Vikriti). MAV considers taste and quality to be central features in the classification of foods, and seasonal factors as crucial in determining nutritional needs. MAV also advises use of certain herbal nutritional supplements to maintain optimum health. These supplements are rich in antioxidants and have been researched extensively for their health-promotion and disease-prevention properties. This new paradigm may enable nutritional science to play a major role in producing a renewed, healthy society.