49. Questions Guests Ask

These are the questions most often asked at the dining hall and reception, with the answers the team gives.

Question	Answer
Why no onion and garlic?	The Centre follows a sattvic diet. In yogic and Ayurvedic tradition onion and garlic are rajasic and tamasic — stimulating or dulling the mind — and are avoided by many sadhakas. Hing and ginger give the same depth of flavour.
Is the food spicy?	No. Spices are used for digestion and aroma, not heat. Chilli is mild and optional; plain portions are always available.
Why is lunch the biggest meal?	Digestive fire is strongest around midday (the Pitta hours). A light early dinner helps sleep and morning appetite.
Can I have curd at dinner?	Ayurveda advises against curd at night. Thin buttermilk at lunch, and warm golden milk at bedtime, are offered instead.
Why is my water warm?	Warm water supports digestion and is gentler for older adults. Room-temperature water is available; ice is not served.
Why so much ghee — isn't it unhealthy?	We use about 2–3 teaspoons per person per day, within an overall fat limit. Ayurveda values ghee for digestion and dryness; guests with high cholesterol can ask for less.
I am diabetic — what should I eat?	Tell reception at check-in. The kitchen serves vegetables and dal first, smaller rice portions, millets, and no sugary drinks, and every recipe has a diabetic note. Follow your doctor's advice on medication and fasting.
I have dentures / difficulty chewing.	Ask for soft or minced texture. Every dish can be adapted (Volume II, Section 13); phulka can be served torn small or replaced with soft rice.
Can I get food at other times?	Meals are prepared fresh to order. Please inform by 6 pm the previous day. On-demand meals cost ₹200 extra, subject to availability.
Do you cater for fasts?	Yes — a full phalahari menu for Ekadashi, Navratri and other fasts, with rock salt and permitted grains. Older guests are encouraged to keep drinking fluids.
Are the recipes available?	Yes. All three volumes of the Annapurna Kitchen books, and the website, list every recipe with exact measures.
Who can have the Abhyangam?	It is offered to female guests by a trained female Panchakarma therapist, by appointment. Male guests can be directed to advanced therapies about 15 minutes away.
Is yoga suitable for me at 75?	The 40-minute class is gentle and chair-based where needed. Tell the trainer about any health conditions; stop if anything hurts.
Can I bring my own food or snacks?	Guests may keep personal snacks in their rooms; the dining hall serves only the sattvic menu.
Do you use garden produce?	Wherever possible. The Annamaya garden supplies herbs, greens, fruit and seasonal vegetables.