The word sattvic comes from the Sanskrit word ‘sattva’. Sattva is one of the three yogic gunas (or qualities). Usually eaten by those who practise yoga, sattvik food is vegetarian, low in fat and high in fibre. In the realm of yoga, food is classified as sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic. Rajasic foods are considered overly stimulating, and tamasic foods described as those that increase laziness “Sattvic”, however, means “pure essence”; sattvic foods are considered pure and are meant to bring about feelings of calmness and harmony.
A sattvic diet is high in micronutrients. Ayurveda believes that sattvic food could be responsible for longevity, strength and a healthy mind. It is fresh, rich in nutrients and can include vegetables, fruits, sprouted whole grains, legumes, nuts, honey, fresh juices and tisanes. Sattvic food excludes animal proteins, fried foods, caffeine and white sugar.
While sattvic food is primarily healthy, it fails to include some foods that are otherwise not harmful. Onions, radishes, chilli peppers and mushrooms are some examples. The principles of a sattvic diet are based on Ayurveda and so modern science considers some of the dietary restrictions unnecessary. However, some foods that a sattvic diet recommends avoiding are indeed unhealthy, like candy, sodas, processed food like chips, frozen meals and white bread. Strong flavours must also be avoided. Dairy that is of a high quality may be consumed in moderation.
Seasonal ingredients are given priority within a sattvic diet. The principle of ‘ahimsa’ or not causing harm to other living beings is very important. Sanskrit texts like the Śāṇḍilya Upanishad and Svātmārāma recommend eating in moderation, which is a key component of following a sattvic diet. This virtue of eating in moderation is called ‘mitahara’.
Despite the fact that its restrictive nature has been questioned by scientists, sattvic food is undeniably healthy, for both the body and the mind.