A review study on concept of infant feeding – ayurvedic and modern perspective

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review study on concept of infant feeding – ayurvedic and modern perspective”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Milk:
Milk is a fundamental source of nutrition, especially in infancy. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, antibodies, and energy necessary for the healthy growth and development of infants. In Ayurveda, breast milk is emphasized as the ideal and complete food for newborns, reflecting its critical role in both physical and emotional nourishment.

2) Food:
Food serves as the primary source of energy and nutrients for all living beings. In the context of infant feeding, it encompasses not just breast milk but also the careful introduction of complementary foods that ensure adequate growth, prevent malnutrition, and support overall health as the child develops.

3) Stanya:
Stanya, or breast milk, is considered the optimal nutrient-rich source for infants in traditional Ayurvedic texts. It is seen as a divine gift that supports the infant's health, immune system, and emotional bonding with the mother, making it irreplaceable in the early stages of life.

4) Life:
Life begins with birth, during which adequate nutrition from the very first moments is crucial. The foundation of healthy life is often established through proper feeding practices, emphasizing the significance of breast milk and later complementary foods to ensure sustainable growth and development.

5) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa, denoting 'essence' or 'flavor', in Ayurveda refers to the constituent qualities of food and drink affecting metabolism and health. It plays a vital role in nutrition, emphasizing the need for balance in food choices to sustain a healthy body and proper functioning of various bodily systems.

6) Family:
Family forms the primary unit for nurturing infants and influencing their dietary practices. The socio-cultural context impacts food preparation and feeding methods. Emphasizing family involvement in infant nutrition can promote shared values and healthier dietary habits as children grow.

7) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu represents the nutrient-rich plasma in Ayurveda responsible for nourishing all bodily tissues. Understanding rasadhatu emphasizes its critical role in transforming food into energy and supporting overall health, highlighting the intricate relationships between diet and bodily functions.

8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine rooted in India, emphasizing balance in body, mind, and spirit. It offers comprehensive guidance on nutrition, including specific practices and philosophies like breastfeeding, which are pivotal for promoting health and preventing diseases throughout one’s life.

9) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda that are vital for sustaining life processes. The nourishment provided through food transforms into dhatus, illustrating the body's reliance on adequate and balanced nutrition for growth, vitality, and maintenance of health.

10) Water:
Water is essential for life, involving multiple physiological processes like digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation. In the context of infant feeding, adequate hydration is crucial, particularly during the transition to complementary foods, to support metabolic functions and prevent dehydration.

11) Substance:
Substances refers to various components in diet, encompassing nutrients essential for health, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. Knowledge of these substances aids in crafting diets that nurture infants effectively, ensuring they receive proper nourishment for growth and development.

12) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata was an influential Ayurvedic physician whose teachings on medicine, particularly related to women's health and pediatrics, provide insights into infant feeding practices. His works highlight the significance of tailored nourishment for mothers and infants in promoting health and well-being.

13) Pregnant:
Pregnant women require a nutrient-rich diet to ensure the optimal development of the fetus. Their dietary choices directly affect not only their health but also the quality and quantity of breast milk produced for newborns, showcasing the importance of maternal nutrition during and after pregnancy.

14) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter, is highly valued in Ayurvedic practices for its health benefits and nourishing properties. It is often used in preparations for infants, providing energy and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, thus enhancing their overall health and development.

15) Dhatri (Dhatr):
Dhatri refers to a wet nurse or caregiver responsible for breastfeeding and caring for a child when a mother is unable to do so. This concept emphasizes the communal aspect of nurturing and highlights the significance of providing infants with adequate nutrition during crucial developmental stages.

16) Reason:
Reason signifies critical thinking, understanding the rationale behind various nutrition practices, and recognizing the necessity of breastfeeding. The emphasis on reasoned approaches in feeding choices supports better health outcomes and ensures that practices align with both Ayurvedic and modern nutritional guidelines.

17) Sarpis (Sarpi, Sarpish):
Sarpi is a term in Ayurveda referring to ghee or clarified butter, recognized for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. It plays a pivotal role in various medicinal formulations and dietary recommendations for infants, enhancing digestion and supporting overall health.

18) Damge (Dange):
Dange refers to Annasaheb Dange Ayurved Medical College, an institution contributing to the study and practice of Ayurvedic medicine. Such institutions play a significant role in the research and dissemination of knowledge concerning infant feeding practices that integrate traditional wisdom with modern insights.

19) Ashta (Asta, Astan, Ashtan):
Ashta signifies 'eight', and in Ayurveda, it may refer to significant aspects, including the eight branches of Ayurveda. Understanding various branches enriches nutritional practices, illustrating the complex interrelation of diet, health, and holistic well-being within the Ayurvedic framework.

20) Sugar:
Sugar, while a source of energy, should be consumed judiciously in the diet. In Ayurvedic practices, it is often recommended as an ingredient in certain preparations for infants, contributing to flavor while balancing other nutrients, highlighting the importance of moderation in dietary choices.

21) Hind:
Hind refers to the latter part of breast milk known as hind milk, which is higher in fat content. Understanding the distinction between fore milk and hind milk is essential in breastfeeding practice to ensure infants receive balanced nutrition during feeding sessions.

22) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition occurs due to inadequate intake of nutrients, potentially leading to detrimental health effects on infants. Timely initiation of breastfeeding and appropriate introduction of complementary foods play a crucial role in preventing malnutrition and ensuring proper growth and developmental milestones.

23) Lakshmana (Laksmana):
Lakshmana refers to a specific Ayurvedic preparation; understanding such unique terms is vital for appreciating traditional feeding practices. These preparations illustrate the nuanced approaches towards enhancing infant nutrition and highlight Ayurveda’s depth in considering taste and health benefits.

24) Navanita (Nava-nita):
Navanita, which refers to butter or clarified versions of dairy products, is believed to enrich the diet. It is often utilized in infant feeding, providing essential nutrients while contributing to flavor, emphasizing the significance of taste in ensuring healthy eating practices.

25) Narendra (Nara-indra):
Narendra Sangwai is one of the authors of the research study, bringing his scholarly insights into Ayurveda and infant health. His contributions reflect the ongoing efforts in integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding to promote healthy practices related to nutrition.

26) Madhura:
Madhura means 'sweet' and represents one of the six tastes according to Ayurveda. Sweetness is important in infant nutrition as it is generally appealing to babies and encourages feeding, while also providing a source of energy and sustenance during crucial developmental phases.

27) Siddha:
Siddha signifies 'attained' or 'accomplished', often associated with traditional practices that have beneficial effects on health. This term reflects the holistic approach in Ayurveda, emphasizing therapies or foods that have been validated through tradition and practice, particularly in child nutrition.

28) Satmya:
Satmya refers to the suitability of a substance or food for an individual based on their constitution and condition. In infant nutrition, recognizing satmya emphasizes the importance of tailored feeding practices that consider individual needs and responses to specific foods.

29) Anjali (Amjali):
Anjali D. Kamat is a co-author of the research study, contributing valuable knowledge on the subject of infant feeding from an Ayurvedic perspective. Her work highlights the need for bridging traditional practices with modern research to reduce health risks among infants.

30) Cancer:
Cancer encompasses a range of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. In discussions on infant nutrition, the long-term health benefits associated with breastfeeding include a potential reduction in cancer risk in later life. Understanding such associations emphasizes the importance of early nutrition.

31) Madhu:
Madhu typically connotes honey or sweetness in Ayurveda and is often included in formulations for infants to enhance nourishment. It underlines the cultural significance of sweet tastes in early child nutrition, fostering acceptance and enjoyment of feeding.

32) Laghu:
Laghu denotes 'lightness' in Ayurveda, often referring to easily digestible foods. In infant feeding, laghu principles guide the selection of food that is gentle on immature digestive systems, thus promoting healthier digestion and nutrient absorption during complementary feeding.

33) Ahara:
Ahara refers to 'food' or 'diet' in Ayurveda and underscores the significance of what is consumed in maintaining health. Knowledge of ahara is crucial, especially in childhood, as it defines dietary practices that foster optimal growth and development.

34) Stana:
Stana refers to the breast or mammary gland in the context of breastfeeding. It highlights the anatomical aspect of nursing and the physiological functions of milk production, emphasizing the importance of stana in infant nutrition and emotional bonding.

35) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food in many cultures, providing a significant source of carbohydrates and energy. Its role in complementary feeding emphasizes the introduction of familiar grains in the infant diet, crucial for transitioning to solid foods while ensuring proper nutrition.

36) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is one of the foundational texts in Ayurveda. Its teachings provide a wealth of knowledge on medical practices, including those related to maternal and infant care, thus informing contemporary practices on nutrition and health for new mothers and their infants.

37) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa signifies the sweet taste, recognized in Ayurveda as an essential flavor contributing to dietary balance. Understanding madhura-rasa’s role in food choices for infants aids in crafting appealing diets that encourage healthy eating habits from an early age.

38) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samshodhana refers to purification practices in Ayurveda aimed at ensuring the quality of various substances, including breast milk. Implementing samshodhana is crucial in promoting health and preventing diseases, particularly when considering the sources and preparation of infant nutrition.

39) Vyanavayu (Vyana-vayu):
Vyana-vayu represents the vital air responsible for circulation and distribution of nutrients. In Ayurvedic texts, the proper function of vyana-vayu is emphasized for maintaining health, stressing the importance of diet in supporting overall metabolic processes and efficient nutrient delivery to the body.

40) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Raktapitta signifies a condition characterized by bleeding disorders associated with dosha imbalances. Understanding raktapitta within the context of nutrition underscores the need for tailored dietary practices that promote balance and overall health, especially in mothers postpartum or during lactation.

41) Developing:
Developing signifies the process of growth and maturation, especially relevant in infancy. The focus on appropriate nutrition during this phase is critical as it lays the foundation for future health, cognitive, and emotional development, highlighting the importance of strategic feeding practices.

42) Depression:
Depression refers to a medical condition impacting mood and mental health. In the context of maternal health, proper nutrition, including breastfeeding, may play a role in reducing postpartum depression risk, thereby promoting healthier emotional states in mothers and enhancing infant care.

43) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netraroga refers to eye disorders in Ayurveda, where certain nourishing practices including quality breast milk are believed to have beneficial effects. Understanding such connections emphasizes the importance of nutrition not only for overall health but also for preventing specific ailments.

44) Swallowed:
Swallowed refers to the process of ingesting food, essential for nutrient absorption and digestion. In infants, the technique of suckling is crucial for proper breastfeeding, directly impacting their nutritional intake and overall development during the early stages of life.

45) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the disturbance or imbalance in the qualities of doshas. Understanding vitiation is crucial in Ayurveda as it relates to diet and health, where proper feeding practices can help restore balance and prevent adverse health effects in infants and children.

46) Affection:
Affection denotes the emotional bond between mother and child, which is critical during feeding. The nurturing aspect of breastfeeding fosters affection, necessary for emotional security and connection that contributes positively to the child's development and well-being.

47) Samskara:
Samskara refers to the rituals and practices that shape individual habits, including feeding behaviors. In the context of infant feeding, samskaras highlight cultural practices important for instilling healthy dietary patterns that collectively enhance family and community health.

48) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the effects or results of substances, especially regarding their impact on health and nutrition. Understanding prabhava guides the incorporation of specific foods and practices that enhance well-being and support healthy growth in infants.

49) Brimhana (Brmhana):
Brimhana means 'nourishing' or 'rejuvenating' in Ayurveda, embodying the importance of providing adequate nutrition to infants. Ensuring that infants receive brimhana foods encourages optimal growth and development while preventing deficiencies that may impede their health.

50) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana signifies the characteristic properties of a substance, helping assess its quality. In a nutritional context, understanding lakshana aids in recognizing the elements that contribute to effective growth and health outcomes for infants, ensuring proper assessments in dietary choices.

51) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa, Kashyapanamdana):
Kashyapa is an esteemed Ayurvedic sage whose contributions encompass various health teachings. His insights into infant and maternal care further the understanding of nutritional practices, emphasizing time-tested approaches to breastfeeding that align with ideal growth and well-being.

52) Science (Scientific):
Science embodies systematic exploration and understanding, particularly relevant to health and nutrition. Integrating scientific principles with traditional practices enhances infant feeding approaches, fostering optimal health outcomes by embracing evidence-based techniques alongside age-old wisdom.

53) Disease:
Disease often arises from various factors, including poor nutritional practices. Recognizing the correlation between diet and disease prevention is critical, particularly in infants, to lay a solid foundation for long-term health and wellness through proper feeding strategies.

54) Mineral:
Minerals are vital nutrients essential for numerous bodily functions. Ensuring that infants receive adequate minerals through breastfeeding and later complementary foods is pivotal for their growth, development, and the prevention of deficiencies that can lead to health complications.

55) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a collection or compilation of Ayurvedic texts that detail medical knowledge. These texts, such as the Charaka Samhita, inform the practices and philosophies surrounding infant nutrition, guiding caregivers in promoting optimal health and well-being for infants.

56) Snehana:
Snehana signifies the process of nourishment and oleation in Ayurveda, emphasizing the significance of fats in the diet. Recognizing the role of snehana in breastfeeding practices highlights the importance of lipid sources for not only energy but also overall health.

57) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya translates to 'heart' in Ayurveda, symbolizing its central role in emotional and physical health. The nurturing practices surrounding feeding, especially through breastfeeding, enhance affection and bonding, ultimately contributing to both emotional security and physiological health.

58) Vrishya (Vrsya):
Vrishya implies 'fertility' or 'reproductive health' in Ayurveda. Understanding vrishya in the context of maternal and infant nutrition underscores the importance of certain foods that not only nourish but also support reproductive and overall health across generations.

59) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to the channels in the body that aid in the transport of nutrients. In the context of nutrition, understanding dhamani emphasizes the importance of a well-functioning digestive and circulatory system to ensure proper absorption and distribution of nutrients obtained from food.

60) Piyusha (Piyusa):
Piyusha refers to the first milk produced postpartum, known as colostrum. It is rich in nutrients and antibodies, playing a crucial role in providing initial nourishment and immunological protection for newborns, stressing the importance of early breastfeeding practices.

61) Manusha (Manusa):
Manusha translates to 'human' and emphasizes the specific nature of human milk that is uniquely suitable for human infants. This highlights the importance of breastfeeding, which provides tailored nutrition necessary for healthy growth and development.

62) Anurasa:
Anurasa indicates a particular quality or taste, a concept in Ayurveda that informs dietary choices. In the feeding practices for infants, understanding anurasa is vital in ensuring foods offered meet the caloric and nutritional needs crucial for healthy growth.

63) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya denotes the astringent taste recognized in Ayurveda. Understanding kashaya helps inform dietary practices that are beneficial for infants, exhibiting how different tastes can contribute to overall health and digestive well-being when introducing new foods.

64) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
Shankha translates to 'conch shell', often associated with purity and auspiciousness in Ayurveda. Its metaphorical use illustrates the significance of dietary choices adhering to principles that enhance health, emphasizing the link between cultural practices and nutrition.

65) Artava:
Artava signifies menstrual fluid, reflective of the female reproductive system's role in nurturing and producing breast milk. Understanding artava's connection to lactation highlights the biological processes underpinning maternity and the subsequent feeding practices for infants.

66) Pathya:
Pathya refers to dietary recommendations that promote health. In the context of infant nutrition, understanding pathya supports informed food choices that foster growth and wellness, ensuring dietary practices align with individual needs and health requirements.

67) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra signifies reproductive fluid or essence in Ayurveda, emphasizing the importance of fertility and wellness in mothers. Understanding shukra links maternal nutrition and overall health to optimal breastfeeding practices, underscoring the interconnectedness of reproductive and infant health.

68) Arogya:
Arogya signifies health and well-being, serving as a foundational principle in Ayurvedic practices. Promoting arogya through proper nutrition, especially during infancy, is crucial in fostering resilience and preventing diseases, ultimately supporting a lifetime of vibrant health.

69) Svarna:
Svarna refers to gold, often symbolizing purity and value. In dietary contexts, it highlights the significance of healthy food choices, encouraging parents to provide not just any nutrition but the 'gold standard' of nurturing foods that promote wellness in infants.

70) Animal:
Animal-derived products, such as milk and protein sources, play a substantial role in nutrition. In the context of infant feeding, the discussion includes considerations of food sources, addressing the nutritional quality and safety of animal products introduced into children's diets.

71) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents bodily humors in Ayurveda that determine physiological and psychological characteristics. Understanding doshas is essential for individualized nutrition approaches as it influences dietary needs, thereby ensuring that infants receive balanced nutrition tailored to their unique constitutional requirements.

72) Apara:
Apara refers to 'secondary' or 'inferior'. In nutrition discussions, it emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality food sources over inferior options. This concept underscores the need for parents to prioritize nutrient-rich foods that support optimal health for their infants.

73) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to administering medicinal substances through the nasal passages. While typically associated with certain treatments, understanding nasya in a broader nutritional context can encourage holistic approaches to infant health, incorporating various delivery methods for nourishing elements.

74) Rakta:
Rakta signifies blood in Ayurveda, an essential element in maintaining life and health. Recognizing the role of rakta emphasizes the necessity of nutritional choices that support blood health, including those practices that enhance the quality and availability of nutrients during infant feeding.

75) Vyana:
Vyana signifies the vital force associated with circulation in Ayurveda. It is essential to recognize how nutritional practices can impact vyana, as a well-balanced diet supports healthy circulation, allowing optimal functioning of bodily systems crucial for infant health.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 93]