For physical and mental well-being, quality and quantity of food plays an important parts. Since the beginning of the practice of Yoga, Yogins did not limit their dietary instructions in terms of carbohydrates, calories and vitamins. For example, the old texts enjoin the Yogi to eat until his stomach is one-half full.
For bodily health, it is suggested that the Yoga adherent limit himself to three meals a day: a light breakfast at 8:30 A.M.; lunch at 1 P.M.; and the main meal at about 6:30 P.M. It is also considered injurious to fill the stomach with food before food previously eaten has passed through the pylorus. This usually takes about four hours.
Some Yogis even consider it harmful to drink water during meals. Many drink about a pint of water on arising in the morning. This, it is believed, will wash down the residues of the alimentary canal through increased peristalsis, and will also facilitate evacuation. No exact quantity of food that would satisfy every individual has been established. Some require a higher intake than others. In the old Yoga texts, it is stated that one may "partake of food according to his desire."