As summer approaches and the fiery Pitta dosha gears up to take over, we can prepare to reset for the new season and be mindful of our diets as we transition. Summer is known for its hot, dry, bright, and sharp qualities. If we don’t eat with intention, these powerful elements can cause a Pitta imbalance, resulting in skin aggravation, inflammation, digestive issues, anger, and fatigue.

While the cooler seasons call for warming foods, the onset of summer means making space for cooling and hydrating foods and beverages. Avoid dry, spicy, acidic, and overly salty foods and instead opt for sweet, bitter, cooling, and astringent flavors. 

Hydration also becomes even more important in the summer months as you lose valuable moisture with all that fun in the sun. And, while the heat may have you itching to reach for an ice-cold drink, Ayurveda actually teaches that cold beverages are counterproductive to your hydration and overall health. The reason being that your body and your agni (digestive fire) have to work so much harder to process very cold food and and drinks.

So, instead of relying on ice to keep things chill, try one of these cooling beverages at your next poolside party or seaside picnic.

Coconut, Lime, and Pomegranate Refresher

Serves 2

2 cups organic unsweetened coconut water

3 limes (2 juiced, one sliced for garnish)

½ cup pomegranate juice

Divide ingredients between two glasses and stir to combine.

Alcohol-Free Mint Julep

Serves 2

2 cups organic unsweetened coconut water or plain sparkling water

½” piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin

Fresh mint to taste (start with 4-5 leaves per glass), plus more for garnish

1 tsp. Pure organic maple syrup

Start by muddling the mint and ginger in the bottom of two glasses to release their oils. Top with maple syrup and coconut/sparkling water, garnish with mint.

Creamy Tropical Coconut Smoothie

Serves 2

1 cup full-fat organic unsweetned coconut milk

½ cup peeled and diced ripe mango

½ cup peeled and diced ripe pineapple

Squeeze of lime

Combine everything in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Divide between two glasses.

Still too hot to whip one of these up? Stop by any of our four locations for some hydrating coconut water, or try our Island Hopper smoothie for a refreshing treat!

The post 3 Pitta-Balancing Bevvies to Help You Beat the Heat appeared first on Annapurna World Vegetarian Cafe.

1. Antioxidants GaloreThe active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to combat free radicals which contribute to aging and disease. A diet rich in curcumin can help fight things like heart disease and some forms of cancer and can help you look and feel younger. Plus, turmeric has ten times the antioxidant power of blueberries, and five times that of dark chocolate!
2. Boosts ImmunityThose antioxidants also help bolster the immune system, helping you fight off sickness and infection. This could be why turmeric has been a staple in the Ayurvedic diet for centuries.
3. Aids in DigestionAccording to ancient Ayurvedic texts, the fiery power of turmeric helps promote agni, or digestion. Studies also show that consuming turmeric in the foods you cook, or in supplement form can help to break down foods, balance gut flora, and keep things moving. It has also been shown to be helpful in the detoxification of some of the body’s other systems, such as the liver.
4. Helps with Aching JointsThe curcumin in turmeric not only boasts antioxidant power, but has also been shown to boost the body’s natural inflammatory response, making it helpful for those experiencing joint pain, arthritis, or strains. Its warming nature helps to move the blood and cue the body to heal itself. If you don’t mind dying your skin turmeric’s signature yellow, you can make a paste to apply topically wherever you have aches and pains.
5. Brain HealthCurcumin’s might doesn’t stop there. Studies have also shown that the curcumin in turmeric promotes BDNF production in the brain. BDNF, or brain-derived neurotrophic factor, is a protein that helps brain cells survive and grow, and contributes to learning and memory. Plus, it helps with depression, stress, and anxiety.

Today, turmeric is becoming a household staple across the globe, just as it has been in Ayurvedic tradition for centuries.  And, it’s easy to see why. In addition to its flavor and health benefits, it is tri-doshic, so whether you’re Vata, Kapha, or Pitta, turmeric can help to bring balance to your body.

So, How Can You Get More Turmeric in Your Life?

Many items on our menu feature turmeric and can help you boost your curcumin intake. Ask us about how we use this spice and look out for our rotating specials that highlight this traditional ingredient.

Here are a few more ways to bring home the healing benefits of turmeric:

My Favorite Golden Milk

*makes one serving

This is not a traditional golden milk recipe, but it is tasty and quick to make. Plus, it’s plant-based!

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• ⅛ tsp dried cardamom, or one cardamom pod gently pressed with a knife
• 1-inch piece of cinnamon stick
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra kick)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 
• ¼ tsp dried ginger, or 1 thin slice of fresh ginger
• 1 tsp pure maple syrup 

Combine everything except the vanilla and maple syrup in a small pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, add vanilla and maple syrup, and cool until ready to drink. Remove the cinnamon stick, pour into your favorite mug, and enjoy!

Other ways to get more turmeric:

• Add turmeric to your eggs or morning tofu scramble
• Mix ½ tsp turmeric into your rice before cooking for color and added benefits
• Sprinkle into soups
• Season or use in marinades for meats and tofu
• Add to leavened bread recipes, naan, or chapati, and serve with ghee or butter for best absorption
• Choose tea blends that feature turmeric

While turmeric is considered safe, always check with your healthcare provider before drastically changing your diet or beginning any supplements.

The post 5 Reasons You Should Be Cooking with Turmeric appeared first on Annapurna World Vegetarian Cafe.