What is Nautapa that begins today, and what foods should be strictly avoided during this time

Time of India

26-05-2025

Nautapa means "nine days of heat", and it is a significant period in the Hindu calendar, and this year it commenced on May 25 and will continue until June 8, 2025. This phase begins when the Sun enters the Rohini Nakshatra, leading to a surge in temperatures and marking the peak of summer heat in India.
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During this period, due to extreme heat, it is suggested to practice a specific dietary and lifestyle routine, which helps to cope with the intense heat and also maintains spiritual well-being.
Foods to avoid during Nautapa
As per expert, the extreme heat during this phase can cause several health issues, hence, it is suggested to avoid certain foods as they can increase the body heat and are heavy to digest as well. Take a look at the foods one should avoid during this period and why.
As per Ayurveda, eggplant is considered 'ushna', which means it can increase body heat. It also contains solanine, a compound that, in excess, may trigger inflammation or sensitivities in some people.Eggplant has a spongy texture that absorbs oil easily when cooked, making it heavier to digest—especially problematic in summer when digestion tends to weaken.
While garlic is known for its medicinal values, it should be avoided during extreme heat, as it increases internal body heat.
Garlic is said to boost agni (digestive fire) and during summer season its consumption can overstimulate digestion, causing discomfort, heartburn, or even dehydration.
Spicy food
Consumption of spicy food in extreme summer can lead to acid reflux or heartburn, stomach ulcer, skin rashes, boils, and even heat-induced headaches. In Ayurveda, spicy food increases Pitta dosha, which is already dominant during summer, leading to imbalance.
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Spicy foods in summer can also lead to fatigue, dizziness, and muscle cramps.
Meat, especially red meat is heavy and it takes longer to digest, and the metabolic process generates more body heat. Hence, it should be avoided during summer months, as it can lead to excessive sweating, heat rashes or acne, and even the risk of dehydration is very high. Non-veg foods like chicken, mutton, and eggs are protein-dense and require strong digestive fire (Agni) and can result in bloating, indigestion, and lethargy or heaviness.
Fermented food
As per experts, fermented foods like dosa, idli, dhokla, pickles, and vinegar can increase internal heat or pitta, and may lead to acidity or heartburn, inflammation, and excess sweating. Fermented foods are sour, pungent, and heat-producing and can lead to acid reflux and even skin and eye issues.
It is suggested to drink plenty of water, coconut water, and cooling beverages like lemonade and buttermilk. Also include fruits and vegetables with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber, and muskmelon in your diet.
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