Can yoga practitioners have non-vegetarian food? Expert explains

Whether it's an exercise or fitness routine, disciplined and consistent practice is extremely important if a person wants to reap the benefits. They should patiently keep at it without expecting quick results. And more than anything, the most important part of practising such disciplines is complementing them with the right diet. What is the right food for people who practise yoga regularly? Yoga Rathna KP Bhaskara Menon, Vice President of the India Yoga Association, explains.

Bhaskara Menon says, "While doing yoga's twists and turns, even our internal organs are extremely involved and feel the pressure. At the time, our stomach should not contain anything undigested. That can damage the body." While many yoga practitioners today say that you can practise it around an hour after food, Bhaskara Menon says at least a window of four hours is necessary." It's also important to ensure that you have just enough food for your tummy. After this, wait for 4 hours, and you are ready for a yoga session, he says.

What about drinks
About 10 minutes before the yoga session, one can have a cup of water or milk, if needed. Avoid cool drinks and sugary, heavy beverages. 
Food after the session
Wait 15 minutes after a yoga session before having a light meal. Half an hour after the session, you can have normal food. 

Only vegetarian foods?
While many opinions like 'vegan or vegetarian food only' are often recommended for yoga practitioners, Bhaskara Menon says what we should eat depends on the kind of energy and calories we need to do our jobs. "Some people say non-vegetarian foods should be avoided. I don't think it is the right argument. Our bodies need enrichment based on the exertion they undergo.