In our discussion of the three qualities of the mind in earlier article, we briefly mentioned the effect that certain foods have on the predominance of sattva, rajas and tamas in the mind. The following list offers a more detailed explanation of the connection between food and the state of mind.
Sattvic Foods
Foods which have a sattvic influence on the mind are light in terms of their digestibility and easily nourish the mind and body. They include fresh foods, milk, ghee, fresh fruits, most vegetables, grains (especially white and brown basmati rice), whole wheat, oats, split or whole mung dal (lentils) and almonds. These foods produce calmness, clarity and creativity in the mind and health and vitality in the body.
Rajasic Foods
Foods which amplify rajas in the mind increase the heat and activity level in the body. They include onions, garlic, hot peppers, tomatoes, radishes, chilies, corn, spices, eggs, fish and poultry. These foods make the mind restless, more aggressive and emotional.
Tamasic Foods
Tamasic foods, promote heaviness in the body and include red meat, alcohol, mushrooms, deep-fried and fermented foods, aged foods, like cheese and leftovers. These foods cause mental dullness, confusion and disorientation as well as physical lethargy and sluggishness. They also give a violent slant to the aggressive quality of rajas.