With over 7 years of experience, Dr Divya Chauhan, BAMS, APG-CRM, PG Adv. Dietetics, is a Senior Ayurveda Researcher at VeditaAI, where she bridges traditional Ayurvedic science with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Her expertise spans clinical research, advanced dietetics, and AI-powered diagnostics for personalized health. Currently pursuing an Executive Certification in Healthcare Management from IIM-Nagpur, Dr Chauhan has led pioneering projects in validating Ayurvedic formulations and advancing women’s health. She remains dedicated to integrating ancient healing wisdom with the demands of modern healthcare.
In a conversation with THIP Media, Dr Divya strongly advocated the need of health literacy among patients. She believes that a patient’s strong foundational knowledge empowers treatment effectiveness.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
In my practice, I frequently encounter a recurring challenge: many patients arrive with previous diagnostic reports, prescriptions, or conclusions drawn from online sources—be it Google or AI tools—believing these are sufficient for assessment. While such tools have their value, Ayurveda requires a deeper, more holistic understanding. True diagnosis involves exploring diet, lifestyle, stress levels, and subtle bodily cues that medical reports often overlook.
Most of the individuals we consult are understandably fatigued by repeated consultations and conflicting advice. However, skipping fresh insights into current symptoms or daily habits can hinder accuracy—like trying to navigate without a compass. In online consultations, the desire for quick fixes often adds to this complexity, making thorough evaluations even more challenging.
My approach is to create a space of trust, encouraging patients to share their full story. This collaborative dialogue is essential for crafting truly personalized and effective care rooted in the principles of Ayurveda.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
To me, health literacy is a patient’s ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply health information in a way that empowers them to make informed, proactive choices about their well-being. It’s not merely about understanding medical terminology—it’s about grasping the why behind healthy habits, the how of treatment plans, and recognizing what the body is trying to communicate through symptoms.
In patient care, this understanding is crucial. When there are gaps in knowledge, it can lead to inconsistent routines, missed early signs of imbalance, or even skepticism toward holistic systems like Ayurveda, which deeply rely on lifestyle harmony. A health-literate patient isn’t just receiving care—they become an active, empowered partner in the healing journey.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
When a patient comes in with even a basic understanding of their health concern, it’s a big plus—it turns our interaction into a true partnership. You share what you’ve observed, and I help connect the dots through the Ayurvedic lens. This way, you understand why certain foods, routines, or even just slowing down really matter.
That said, “Dr. Google” can sometimes be misleading. It often narrows the focus to pills, test results, or diagnoses—while overlooking vital elements like sleep quality, emotional well-being, or dietary patterns. That’s where my role becomes essential.
A patient’s foundational knowledge can significantly boost the effectiveness of treatment. It encourages collaborative care, strengthens adherence to recommendations, and improves self-awareness. But it’s all about balance—while informed patients communicate better and feel more in control, relying too heavily on unverified sources can distort the bigger picture and miss key lifestyle nuances that Ayurveda emphasizes.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Medical misinformation can seriously disrupt treatment outcomes. For instance, patients may experiment with random herbs or diets they find online, unaware that these could interact negatively with their medications or be unsuitable for their individual health needs. Sometimes, they might dismiss important symptoms, thinking, “It’ll pass,” and end up delaying necessary care. Even more concerning, false information can create fear around safe, evidence-based treatments or lead to blind faith in so-called “miracle cures.”
As doctors, we often find ourselves spending valuable time correcting these missteps instead of focusing on actual healing. That’s why it’s crucial to verify information with qualified experts—your health deserves more than a quick internet search!
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
One common myth I often hear is: “All Ayurvedic medicines are garam (heating) and damage digestion.” While it’s true that some herbs have heating properties, Ayurveda is not a one-size-fits-all system. If a remedy feels “too hot,” it likely isn’t aligned with your unique body constitution (dosha). For instance, pippali (long pepper) can be great for someone with slow digestion but may aggravate symptoms in someone with excess heat.
Another misconception? “Ayurveda is just harmless herbs.” Not really. Natural doesn’t always mean risk-free. Wrong dosages or improper combinations can do more harm than good. Take triphala, for example—widely praised, but when overused or taken without proper guidance, it can disturb your digestive balance.
Ayurveda thrives on personalization. What benefits one person might be unsuitable for another. That’s why open, clear communication with a qualified practitioner is key—it ensures that every recommendation is tailored to your individual constitution, condition, and context.
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
The most common advice I give my patients is: don’t believe everything you read online! Just because a remedy worked for someone else doesn’t mean it’s right for you—your body is as unique as your fingerprint. Always make sure health tips are coming from credible sources or qualified experts, not just random social media posts.
Take turmeric, for example—it’s widely celebrated, but when used incorrectly, it can actually cause stomach discomfort. That’s why it’s so important to consult a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner before trying anything new. We’re here to guide you with advice that’s tailored to your specific needs, ensuring it supports your health, not complicates it.
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