This is not just a passing trend from India. It is a millennia-old practice based on natural logic and observation of the body. And you know what? It works.
Why is the morning so important in Ayurveda?
Ayurveda - the ancient science of life - teaches that the body is connected to the natural rhythms of the day. In the morning, before sunrise, the time of Brahma muhurta comes - a time of silence, focus, and the greatest spiritual potential. It is a time when nature awakens, birds sing, and the world has not yet scattered into the chaos of everyday life.
If you wake up between 4:30 and 6:00, you give yourself an invaluable advantage - your body digests easier, your heart is calm, your mind is clear. And it is recommended that during this time you first drink a warm glass of water (with lemon if you like), and then about 20–30 minutes later, have a light, warm breakfast.
Why cooked apples in particular?
Apples are one of the most "neutral" fruits in nature - they are sweet but not too sweet, they have fiber but are not heavy. And when we cook them, they are further "pre-digested". The body therefore welcomes them with open arms.
Cooked apples contain:
- Pectin, soluble fiber that acts as food for good intestinal bacteria.
- Polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that cleanse the body and protect against inflammation.
- Natural sugars that are released slowly and do not cause a sugar spike.
Cooked apples help with constipation, bloating, weak digestion, and even irritability. Some say they work as a "morning massage for the intestines".
And the best part? With a few spices, they can be turned into a healing elixir.
Ayurvedic recipe: Morning cooked apples with cinnamon and raisins
Ingredients:
- 1 to 2 apples (preferably organic)
- handful of raisins
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3–5 whole cloves
- glass of water
Instructions:
Peel and cut the apples into wedges or cubes. In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil and add all the ingredients. Cook covered over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until the apples soften and the spices release their magic. Optionally, you can add a pinch of ginger or a few drops of lemon juice (if you don't have issues with stomach acid).
Serve warm, without sugar.
This is a breakfast that you can eat every day without worry. And even though it sounds simple, it has exceptional effects.
What you gain from this habit:
- Improved digestion
Apple pectin feeds good bacteria in the gut, which balances the microbiome - the center of the immune system. Regular consumption of cooked apples can prevent constipation and an irritable gut.
- More energy without coffee
Warm food is like a hug for the body. It doesn't need extra energy to warm it up. So after breakfast, you don't need to embrace coffee - you will feel light but stable.
- Better concentration and less stress
In Ayurveda, heavy, greasy, or cold food in the morning "clogs" the energy channels. Light, cooked food calms the mind and improves focus. Many people report being more productive and less irritable after such a breakfast.
- Clearer skin and less inflammation
Polyphenols and antioxidants in apples help cleanse the blood and reduce inflammation, which shows on the skin. Fewer pimples, less redness, more glow.
- Lower cholesterol and a healthier heart
Pectin can help reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL). Research suggests that daily apple consumption reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
If you had to choose just one morning habit that could improve your health, it would be cooked apples. They are simple, accessible, natural, and incredibly effective. You don't need superfoods from the Amazon - you just need local apples, some warmth, and a little love for yourself.
Start today...