Abstract

ROLE OF AHARA (DIET) IN SMRITIBHRAMSHA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO DEMENTIA

Dr. Meena Kashinath Khot*

Abstract

Background: Dementia is a clinical syndrome characterized by progressive impairment of cognition that interferes with everyday functioning. Ayurveda does not describe dementia as a single independent disease entity; however, cognitive manifestations can be examined through concepts such as Smriti, Medha, Buddhi, Manas, age-related decline and Vata disturbance. Ahara is regarded as a major determinant of health and disease in Ayurveda. Objective: To critically review the role of Ahara in Smritibhramsha with special reference to dementia and to develop an academically defensible dietary framework that connects classical Ayurvedic principles with contemporary evidence. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was undertaken using the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita as principal classical sources, supplemented by WHO guidance, international dementia-nutrition guidelines, systematic reviews, meta-analyses and selected peer-reviewed literature on dietary patterns, cognition and Medhya Rasayana. The literature was synthesized thematically under Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary nutritional domains. Results: The reviewed literature indicates that Ahara in Ayurveda is concerned not only with food items but also with quantity, preparation, compatibility, timing, suitability and digestive capacity. Contemporary evidence supports healthy dietary patterns, particularly Mediterranean-like patterns, together with management of vascular and metabolic risk factors. In people living with dementia, prevention and treatment of malnutrition, dehydration and dysphagia-related complications are important. Evidence for isolated nutrients, supplements or individual Ayurvedic foods as dementia treatments remains insufficient. The Ayurvedic concept of Medhya Rasayana provides a plausible supportive framework, but available clinical evidence is not adequate to claim disease modification or cure. Conclusion: An individualized Ayurvedic dietary approach for cognitive health should prioritize adequate and diverse nutrition, appropriate digestibility, hydration, metabolic health, avoidance of Ahita Ahara and stage-specific caregiver support. This framework is best regarded as preventive and supportive rather than a substitute for evidence-based diagnosis and management of dementia.

Keywords: Smritibhramsha; dementia; Ahara; Medha; Smriti; Rasayana; Medhya Rasayana; Ayurveda; nutrition; cognitive decline.