Coffee and Ayurveda — Tips for each dosha

A question I get all the time from my clients: “Can I still drink my coffee?”

The answer is: It depends.

Coffee and Ayurveda may coexist together when we apply simple, effective strategies.

These are the dos and the don’ts.

Understanding Coffee Through Ayurveda

“I still don’t have the right amount of coffee in my system, don’t talk to me yet”

Have you seen mugs with similar messages?

They are a description of the strong dependence people feel for coffee.

Having coffee is often synonymous with physical and mental functioning and being productive. It might also indicate our capacity to engage in a conversation or feel approachable.

It doesn’t have to be that way, though.

In Ayurveda, every food and drink we consume affects our doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These are the three fundamental energies that govern our physical and mental processes. Maintaining a balance among these doshas is key to our health and well-being.

Coffee is considered to have heating properties and can stimulate the body and mind due to its caffeine content. It has a bitter taste and a pungent aftertaste. In Ayurvedic terms, it reduces Kapha but can aggravate Vata and Pitta if consumed excessively or inappropriately.

The Ayurvedic Qualities of Coffee

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While coffee is certainly something most people can’t live without, when applying Ayurveda to our lives, we understand foods can act as medicine, neutral nourishment, or poison.

Coffee can be a tonic for a few people.

Or, its effect might be unnoticeable for those who have a strong constitution.

But, for some, and I dare to say the majority of us, coffee can be a significant aggravation factor.

If you are Vata dominant like me, or Pitta aggravated, coffee should be either reduced or eliminated.

I know… I know…

It sounds easier said than done.

If that’s the case, practice the following principles to make your cup of joe less depleting and stimulating.

To learn more about how to eat for your body type

↧↧↧

Vata dosha diet

Pitta dosha diet

Kapha dosha diet

Effects on Doshas

Before we delve into the specific effects of coffee on each Dosha, it’s vital to note that individual responses can vary. Factors such as one’s current dosha balance, overall health, and the manner in which coffee is consumed can all influence its effects. Here, we’ll outline the general Ayurvedic view of how coffee may affect those with primarily Vata, Pitta, or Kapha constitutions.

Vata

Coffee’s stimulating effects can exacerbate Vata imbalance, leading to symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, dry skin, constipation, or irregular digestion. If you’re a Vata type or have a Vata imbalance, it’s best to limit your coffee intake or opt for alternatives like herbal teas.

Vata individuals are characterized by qualities of air and ether, and excessive coffee consumption can further increase these qualities, aggravating Vata-related symptoms. It’s important to find a balance that supports your well-being and minimizes any potential negative effects.

Pitta

As a heating drink, coffee can also disturb Pitta, leading to acidity, heartburn, inflammation, or irritability. Pitta types should be cautious with coffee, especially during summer or in hot climates.

Pitta has qualities of fire and water, and the heating nature of coffee can exacerbate Pitta-related symptoms. It’s advisable for Pitta types to consume coffee in moderation and consider cooling alternatives during periods of increased Pitta imbalance.

Kapha

For Kapha types, coffee can actually be beneficial when used sparingly. Its stimulating and drying properties can help balance Kapha’s sluggishness and excess moisture. Kapha people are characterized by qualities of earth and water, and the invigorating effects of coffee can counterbalance their natural tendencies.

However, it’s important for Kapha types to exercise moderation and not rely solely on coffee to manage Kapha-related imbalances. Embracing a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet and lifestyle is crucial for overall well-being.

Making Coffee More Tolerable

Vata and Pitta doshas, specially, should make some modification to the quantity or way of preparation of coffee.

These are the suggestions.

➸ Add ghee or coconut oil to your coffee

Coffee is dry.

Drinking it by itself can be deeply aggravating for Vata body types. Instead, add some fat, like ghee, to nourish your tissues and protect your nervous and digestive system.

➸ Mix your coffee with homemade almond milk

Coffee is hot.

Which can intensify the heat in a Pitta body. Therefore, adding some home-made almond or coconut milk can make it more suitable for the fiery constitution.

➸ Use spices

Spices are a helpful tool we have to adjust the effect of foods.

With coffee, we could use cardamom, vanilla, or mint to reduce the harmful side effects in delicate bodies.

➸ The right time for drinking coffee

Avoid having coffee:

• First thing in the morning
• With an empty stomach
• In the evening (This is essential for Vatas, since when we get overly stimulated, we might suffer from insomnia)
• With meals.

Coffee and Ayurveda: Additional Tips

If you’re a coffee lover, don’t worry. There are ways to make your coffee habit a bit more Ayurvedic:

• Choose quality: Opt for organic, fair-trade coffee whenever possible. The quality of the beans can greatly affect how your body responds to the coffee.
• Mindful consumption: Pay attention to when and how you drink coffee. Avoid it on an empty stomach, as it can increase acidity and disturb digestion. Savor it mindfully, enjoying the taste and aroma fully.
• Hydrate: Coffee is a diuretic, which means it can dehydrate your body. Ensure you consume plenty of water throughout the day to maintain hydration.
• Choose the Right Roast: The roast type can also impact the balance. Light roasts are less acidic and easier on the stomach, while dark roasts contain less caffeine.

The Perfect Coffee for Your Body Type

Vata dosha

Vata individuals tend to be slender, suffer from anxiety, hyperactivity, insomnia, and constipation.

In addition, we often have dry nails, skin, lips, and hair.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Reduce your coffee consumption to the minimum.
• Add ghee or cashew milk instead of creamer.
• Spice it with cardamom, cinnamon, or anise.
• Sweeten your coffee with fresh date purée.
• Work on substituting coffee with ginger or cardamom teas or incorporate adaptogenic tonics, like Ashwagandha into your diet. This is a fantastic adaptogenic recipe you can try!

Pitta dosha

Pitta dosha is more inclined to suffer from inflammation imbalances like skin disorders, as well as digestion issues such as reflux and heartburn.

Based on Ayurveda teachings, coffee energetics can make Pitta more Pitta, meaning it can exacerbate the conditions of a high internal fire.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Reduce your coffee consumption to the minimum.
• Mix it with almond milk and rose water.
• Use cardamom, lavender seeds, and vanilla.
• Sweeten your coffee with maple syrup.
• Work on substituting coffee with matcha lattes or green teas.

Kapha dosha

Coffee is actually good for Kapha dosha.

In fact, it is recommended to promote weight loss and decrease congestion.

As Kaphas tend to gain weight easily and suffer from water retention, sinus congestion, and lack of motivation overall, coffee acts as an antidote for those issues.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Use cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger to render it more digestible and heating.
• Use a little of honey to sweeten it.
• Instead of coffee you can have black or peppermint tea.