Chemical protein powders are bad; Shilajit not only limited to sexual health: Dr Ajayita

In a candid conversation with Prateek Shukla, medical professional and entrepreneur Dr Ajayita speaks on the use of hair oil, protein powder, Shilajit, and more:-

Today, we are witnessing a global resurgence in Ayurvedic products, particularly because they don't have harmful side effects. In this context, what's your vision with your wellness products platform Ayamveda? And what Ayurvedic supplements should adults take?

At AyamVeda, we’re on a mission to give Ayurveda the global respect it deserves — just as Yoga has earned. In a world where 'miracle' herbs are often sold in isolation, we stand for something deeper. Ayurveda is about balance, and that’s exactly what Ayamveda brings to every product we create. We’re not just selling herbs — we’re offering the ancient wisdom that inspired Yoga, designed to restore balance to your life.

Supplements must be tailored to individual needs, based on age and lifestyle. For example, I strongly recommend Shilajit for women over 40 and Nari 35’s blend of herbs during pre- and peri-menopause. But balance is always the key.

Modern sedentary lifestyles and stress are triggering several health issues in men. Reports are even claiming a decline in sexual health as well. Do you feel we are witnessing a drop in 'masculinity'?

Of course, a sedentary lifestyle leads to issues in men. In Ayurvedic texts, written 5,000 years ago, it is mentioned that if you eat too much fatty food, it triggers Kapha Dushti. When this happens, all the parameters of the body get affected. Nowadays, people have started consuming highly processed and unhealthy food.

Now, when we speak about sperm, it is highly motile, but due to an extremely sedentary lifestyle, its motility is reducing. That’s the reason we feel there is a drop in masculinity.

Shilajit is usually associated with sexual performance, and hence, the word itself has become a taboo. Could you explain to us the role of Shilajit? Also, who should take Shilajit supplements, and how frequently?

Shilajit is usually associated with sexual performance, but it has multiple roles to play, including sexual wellness. In Ayurveda, Shilajit has been described as the “Warrior of tiredness”.

It covers the entire gamut of things associated with tiredness. Shilajit is a very high ATP booster. It improves stamina and power, is an antioxidant, boosts immunity, and helps with weight management too. So, Shilajit shouldn’t be a taboo. Only one aspect of Shilajit has been put under the limelight; the other aspects must also be considered.

The ideal dose of Shilajit is 300 milligrams — twice a day. However, be active with exercise when you take Shilajit. Also, drink plenty of water and follow a high-fiber diet for the best results.

Protein powder is another polarising issue. Gym enthusiasts can argue over it all day. There's a conception that it leads to liver damage. What's your opinion?

When you’re taking protein powder that is chemically designed, it is not good for your body. However, natural proteins are always required because essential amino acids are very important for the body to build muscle mass and for repair.

When you are suffering from dengue, malaria, or typhoid, there is extreme protein loss. Then, every doctor tells you to intake protein through lentils or soup. Nowadays, buzz gets created over many things. People should understand that Google can’t be their doctor. To understand the mechanism, you must visit an actual doctor. Chemically generated proteins are bad, but natural proteins are always good for the body.

A new debate has started over hair oils as well. Should one use them or not? This is especially important as both men and women face issues like thinning and greying of hair.

Hair oil is a must. It provides nourishment. A decade ago, there was a lot of buzz over ghee being unhealthy. Now, it has been accepted as a superfood.

Similarly, hair oils are important. It is “snehan.” There is no harm. Dermatologists say that if you’re suffering from dandruff, only then should you avoid using hair oil. To some extent, there is some misunderstanding in this area.

Hair oil should be used by everyone. It should only be avoided when there is a possibility of exposure to a dusty environment while going outside. Ideally, you can apply hair oil, keep it on for two hours, and then wash your hair.