Ayurveda views health as a dynamic equilibrium between opposing yet complementary forces. Among these are anabolism (the body’s building processes) and catabolism (the body’s breakdown processes). While modern science discusses these in terms of metabolism, Ayurveda approaches this balance through the lens of agni (digestive fire), ojas, and tissue formation (dhatus). This article explores how different types of foods — heavy vs. light, nourishing vs. cleansing — influence anabolic and catabolic activity, and how to use this knowledge to optimize energy, maintain muscle and tissue integrity, and avoid imbalances like fatigue, stagnation, or depletion. Learn how to make informed choices based on your dosha, season, and life phase.