Bad food combinations and viruddha aharas (discrepancies in vipaka, guna, virya, and prabhava) can cause agni disturbances, indigestion, ama buildup, damage to dhatus, and blockage of channels. This does not provide adequate nutrition, explains Dr. Mrunal Gole, Ayurvedic consultant at Birla Ayurveda. Here are some vegetable combinations listed by Dr. Gall that are generally considered incompatible according to Ayurveda: (All photos: Freepik)
milk and vegetables
Consuming milk with certain vegetables, especially sour or acidic vegetables (tomatoes, sour fruits, leafy vegetables, etc.) is considered incompatible with Ayurveda. This combination is thought to interfere with the digestive fire (agni) and can cause bloating, gas, and indigestion.
fruits and vegetables
Ayurveda advises against combining fruits and vegetables because they have different digestion times and can ferment in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the production of toxins (ama). It is believed that this combination can impair digestion and contribute to the formation of toxins in the body.
radish and milk
In Ayurveda, radish is considered a warming vegetable, while milk is considered a cooling vegetable. It is believed that consuming radish with milk can create an imbalance in thermoregulation and cause digestive discomfort.
nightshade vegetables and dairy products
Vegetables from the nightshade family, such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, contain alkaloids that can interact negatively with dairy products. It is believed that consuming dairy products with nightshade vegetables can interfere with digestion and worsen certain health conditions, especially in people with sensitivities or allergies.
milk and sour vegetables
Avoid combining milk with sour or acidic vegetables, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, sour berries, and certain leafy greens (such as spinach). This combination can interfere with digestion, causing bloating, gas, and indigestion.
onions and yogurt
Ayurveda advises against combining spicy and heating onions with yogurt, as this can interfere with digestion and produce toxins in the body.
honey and radish
Mixing honey, which is a sweetener, with radish, which has a pungent taste and heat, can create an incompatible combination that interferes with digestion and aggravates pitta dosha.
cucumber and dairy products
Cucumbers cool and hydrate the body, but when combined with dairy products, they can cause digestive issues, especially for people with weak digestion or Kapha predominance.
raw vegetables and dairy products
Some people have difficulty digesting raw vegetables, so consuming raw vegetables with dairy products can lead to digestive issues and the production of toxins in the body.
