The Sattvic diet discourages the consumption of foods that are considered rajasic or tamasic.
For this reason, most animal products, highly processed foods, refined sugar, and fried foods are restricted.
The following foods and ingredients should be avoided on the Sattvic diet (3Trusted Source):
- Added sugar and sweets: white sugar, high fructose corn syrup, candy, soda, etc.
- Fried foods: french fries, fried vegetables, fried pastries, etc.
- Processed foods: chips, sugary breakfast cereals, fast food, frozen dinners, microwave meals, etc.
- Refined grain products: white bread, bagels, cakes, cookies, etc.
- Meat, fish, eggs, and poultry: chicken, beef, turkey, duck, lamb, fish, shellfish, whole eggs, egg whites, animal-based products such as collagen, etc.
- Certain vegetables and fruits: onion, durian, scallions, pickles, and garlic
- Certain beverages: alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeinated beverages like coffee
Generally, foods that are overly sour, salty, or spicy should be avoided. Additionally, stale foods, such as foods that have been left out overnight, are considered tamasic and should be avoided.