(Ref: Charaka Samhita)
Ahara Shakti is examined in 2 ways:
- Abhyavaharana Shakti – It represents the capacity or the quantity of food intake in relation to the appetite.
- Jarana Shakti – It refers to the power of Agni.
Both strength and life span are assessed by the diet of the individual.
One may be able to ingest large amounts of food but unable to digest the same. So, its examination also helps in preparing a diet. The protection of agni is necessary to maintain excellent digestion and power of ingestion, as this leads to stronger resistance against diseases.