Following a strict ayurvedic diet also forms part of the ayurvedic treatment method.     Ayurveda emphasizes that the diet we take has a close influence on our mind and     body. According to ayurveda, the mind has three possible states (tri-gunas) that are     related to the three states of our physical constitution or the three-dosha types.     Sattva, or peaceful equilibrium, rajas, or excessive activity and tamas, or inertia—the     three tendencies or gunas of mind influence the imbalances in the three doshas.     Specific dietary adjustments serves to maintain the balance of specific doshas and     thus entail perfect health. Appropriate diet can be used to remove or neutralize toxins     in the body, also.

Ayurveda suggests eating food until one's appetite is satisfied. When ill, one should eat only light food, and then normal food in small quantities, until half the appetite is fulfilled. One important rule in ayurveda is never to combine contradictory foods in terms of their qualities. Some of the commonly followed rules on food habits according to ayurveda are as below: