Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, as it sets the tone for the hours ahead. Ayurveda recommends healthy, affordable breakfast options that can nourish the body without being expensive. Acharya Balkrishnaji, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, shares insights into Ayurvedic breakfasts and highlights options that go beyond what only the affluent can afford. Also, discover healthy offerings from Patanjali that can suit your everyday needs.
Breakfast, the Ayurvedic Way
According to Ayurveda, breakfast gently awakens the digestive fire, provides energy and helps maintain the body’s natural daily rhythm. It is best to keep breakfast light, fresh, warm, easily digestible and balanced to support your doshas.
Ideally, breakfast should be eaten between 6 and 10 in the morning, when the digestive fire begins to become stronger. Avoid foods that are cold, raw or too heavy, as they may slow digestion. Choosing fresh, seasonal ingredients can also help support the body through changing seasons.
Skipping breakfast may not be ideal for the body. If you are not hungry or have a busy morning, opt for something light rather than avoiding the meal altogether. Read on for Acharya Balkrishnaji’s suggestions for affordable and healthy Ayurvedic breakfast options, along with Patanjali products that can complement your morning routine.
4 Reasonable Ayurvedic Breakfast Options
Black Chickpeas and Peanuts: suggests soaking around 50 g of black chickpeas (kala chana) and 5–10 g of peanuts in water overnight and eating them in the morning. “This is not only inexpensive but also amazing for building strength; it is highly nutritious and energising. Furthermore, having a healthy digestive system is crucial; those with good digestion can consume this regularly,” he says.
Patanjali Kala Chana (500 Gms and 1 Kg) contains nutrients and minerals such as fibre, protein, carbohydrates, manganese, phosphorus, iron and copper, along with vitamins B6, C, folate, niacin, thiamine and riboflavin. For a protein-rich addition, choose Patanjali Raw Peanuts (500 Gms).
Oats: Oats can be a nourishing and filling breakfast option. Ayurveda recommends having them cooked and warm. Add ingredients such as turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, apples, dates and ghee for extra flavour and nourishment. Patanjali Oats – Rolled Oats (200 Gms, 500 Gms, and 1 Kg), are minimally processed and easy to prepare. For a more flavourful breakfast, choose Patanjali Masala Oats (40 Gms, 200 Gms, and 400 Gms) and Patanjali Tomato Oats (400 Gms). These options provide protein and fibre.
Moong Dal Chilla: This savoury pancake can make for a wholesome Ayurvedic breakfast. Moong dal is considered light and cooling in Ayurveda and is traditionally associated with balancing the doshas. It can be made using yellow split moong dal, whole green moong or sprouted moong. Add hing, turmeric, cumin and rock salt for flavour. Choose Patanjali Unpolished Moong Dal Chilka (500 Gms and 1 Kg) and Patanjali Unpolished Moong Dal Dhuli (500 Gms and 1 Kg), as these dals retain their natural nutritional value and can be a good choice for everyday meals.
Ragi Kanji: Ragi kanji is simple to prepare and requires minimal processing. Ragi is naturally rich in calcium and fibre, while its relatively low glycaemic index makes it a filling breakfast choice. Its iron content also contributes to a balanced diet. As ragi is light and easy to digest, kanji can be a comforting option when you are feeling unwell or experiencing digestive discomfort. Patanjali Ragi Atta (Madwa Atta) (1 Kg) can be used to prepare ragi kanji.
A healthy, nourishing breakfast does not have to be expensive. As Acharya Balkrishnaji, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, points out, simple, affordable ingredients can form the basis of an Ayurvedic breakfast. Patanjali’s range of everyday food products can make these options easier to incorporate into your morning routine.
