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Sushruta Samhita Uttaratantra Chapter 63 Rasabheda Vikalpa Adhyāya (Categories of Tastes)


AIAPGET POINTS

  1.   Acharya Sushruta enumerates 63 categories of Rasas in Chapter 63 of Sushruta Uttara.
  2.   2 Rasa Combinations are 15 in number.
  3.   In total, 20 types of 3 Rasa Combinations are formed.
  4.   In total, 15 types of 4 Rasa Combinations are formed.
  5.   5 Rasa combinations are 6 in number.

For More AIAPGET Points from this chapter and also for content and preparation, please join our SARATHI Program.

The 63rd chapter of Uttaratantra of Sushruta Samhita is named as Rasabheda Vikalpa Adhyāya. This chapter deals with Categories of Tastes. 

अथातो रसभेदविकल्पमध्यायं व्याख्यास्यामः ||१||
यथोवाच भगवान् धन्वन्तरिः ||२||

We will now expound the chapter on Rasabheda vikalpa- categories of tastes; as revealed by the venerable Dhafivañtari.

दोषाणां पञ्चदशधा प्रसरोऽभिहितस्तु यः |
त्रिषष्ट्या रसाभेदानां तत्प्रयोजनमुच्यते ||३||
अविदग्धा विदग्धाश्च भिद्यन्ते ते त्रिषष्टिधा |
रसभेदत्रिषष्टिं तु वीक्ष्य वीक्ष्यावचारयेत् ||४||

In the Sutra Sthana section, chapter 21, it was already stated that the doshas spread throughout the body in fifteen different ways. In this context, sixty three categories of tastes shall be described for the purpose of treatment of those doshas (which are spreading in different ways).

Tastes are six in numbers. Each individual taste and in different combinations with other tastes become sixty three in number. Only after carefully considering the sixty three combinations of tastes in the herbs (medicines), the physician should bring them into use.

एकैकेनानुगमनं भागशो यदुदीरितम् |
दोषाणां, तत्र मतिमान् त्रिषष्टिं तु प्रयोजयेत् ||५||

An intelligent physician should adopt these tastes skilfully as below mentioned –

        each one (taste) separately in case of aggravation of doshas in parts, each dosha separate, and

        the sixty three combinations of tastes in case of aggravation of doshas in combinations of two or three

Categories of two tastes

यथाक्रमप्रवृत्तानां द्विकेषु मधुरो रसः |
पञ्चानुक्रमते योगानम्लश्चतुर एव तु ||६||
त्रींश्चानुगच्छति रसो लवणः कटुको द्वयम् |
तिक्तः कषायमन्वेति ते द्विका दश पञ्च च ||७||
तद्यथा- मधुराम्लः(१), मधुरलवणः(२), मधुरकटुकः(३), मधुरतिक्तः(४), मधुरकषायः(५), एतेपञ्चानुक्रान्ता मधुरेण; अम्ललवणः(१), अम्लकटुकः(२), अम्लतिक्तः(३), अम्लकषायः(४), एते चत्वारोऽनुक्रान्ता अम्लेन; लवणकटुकः(१), लवणतिक्तः(२), लवणकषायः(३), एते त्रयोऽनुक्रान्ता लवणेन; कटुतिक्तः(१), कटुकषायः(२), द्वावेतावनुक्रान्तौ कटुकेन; तिक्तकषायः(१) एक एवानुक्रान्तस्तिक्तेन; एवमेते पञ्चदश द्विकसंयोगा व्याख्याताः ||८||

Classification-

Proceeding further,

      madhura rasa (sweet taste) together with another one makes five categories;

      amla rasa (sour taste) together with another one makes four categories;

      lavaṇa (salt) together with another one makes three categories;

      katu rasa (pungent taste) together with another one makes two categories;

      tikta rasa (bitter taste) and kaşāya (astringent taste) together with another one makes two categories;

Fifteen categories are formed thus.

They are as follows-

Below mentioned are the five combinations of madhura rasa – sweet taste –

  1. Madhura + amla
  2. Madhura + lavana 
  3. Madhura + Katu           
  4. Madhura + Tikta
  5. Madhura + Kashaya

Below mentioned are the four combinations of amla rasa – sour taste –

  1. Amla + Lavaṇa
  2. Amla + Katu
  3. Amla + Tikta
  4. Amla + Kashaya

Below mentioned are the three combinations of lavana rasa – salt taste –

  1. Lavaṇa + Katu
  2. Lavana + Tikta
  3. Lavana + Kashaya

Below mentioned are the two combinations of katu rasa – pungent taste –

  1. Katu +Tikta
  2. Katu + Kashaya

Below mentioned is one combination of tikta rasa – bitter taste –

  1. Tikta + Kaṣāya

This one is the combination of tikta.

Categories of three tastes

त्रिकान् वक्ष्यामः-
आदौ प्रयुज्यमानस्तु मधुरो दश गच्छति |
षडम्लो लवणस्तस्मादर्धमेकं तथा कटुः ||९||

Now, the categories of three tastes shall now be described –

First of all,

        madhura rasa – sweet taste, in combination with other two tastes forms ten categories;

        amla rasa – sour taste, in combination with other two tastes, forms six categories,

        lavana rasa – salt taste, in combination with other two tastes, forms half of it (in other words three) and

        katu rasa – pungent taste, in combination with other two tastes, forms only one category

If Amla Rasa is counted as the first Rasa, how many 3 RASA combinations / types would it form in combination with other Rasas?

  1. 15
  2.   05
  3. 06
  4.   10

Ans – d. 10. Ref – Su.Ut.63/9-10

तद्यथा- मधुराम्ललवणः(१), मधुराम्लकटुकः(२), मधुराम्लतिक्तः(३), मधुराम्लकषायः(४), मधुरलवणकटुकः(५), मधुरलवणतिक्ताः(६), मधुरलवणकषायः(७), मधुरकटुकतिक्तः(८), मधुरकटुकषायः(९), मधुरतिक्तकषायः(१०), एवमेषां दशानां त्रिकसंयोगानामादौ मधुरः प्रयुज्यते; अम्ललवणकटुकः(१), अम्ललवणतिक्तः(२), अम्ललवणकषायः(३), अम्लकटुतिक्तः(४), अम्लकटुकषायः(५), अम्लतिक्तकषायः(६), एवमेषां षण्णामादावम्लः प्रयुज्यते; लवणकटुतिक्तः(१), लवणकटुकषायः(२), लवणतिक्तकषायः(३), एवमेषां त्रयाणामादौ लवणः प्रयुज्यते; कटुतिक्तकषायः(१), एवमेकस्यादौ कटुकः प्रयुज्यते; एवमेते त्रिकसंयोगा विंशतिर्व्याख्याताः ||१०||

They are as follows –

Below mentioned ten categories are formed from combination of three tastes, commencing from madhura rasa – sweet taste

  1.   Madhura   +Amla+ Lavana
  2.   Madhura  + Amla+ Katu
  3.   Madhura  + Amla+ Tikta
  4.   Madhura  + Amla+ Kasaya
  5.   Madhura  + Lavana+ Katu
  6.   Madhura  + LAvana + Tikta
  7.   Madhura  + Lavana+ Kasaya
  8.   Madhura  + Katu+Tikta
  9.   Madhura  + Katu+Kasaya
  10. Madhura  + Tikta+ Kasaya

Below mentioned six categories are formed from combination of three tastes, commencing from amla rasa – sour taste,

  1. Amla + Lavana+ Katu
  2. Amla + Lavana+ Tikta
  3. Amla +Lavana+ Kasaya
  4. Amla +Katu+Tikta
  5. Amla +Katu+Kasaya
  6. Amla +Tikta+ Kasaya

Below mentioned three categories are formed from combination of three tastes, commencing from lavana rasa – salt taste,

  1. Lavana + Katu+ Tikta
  2. Lavana+ Katu+ Kasaya
  3. Lavana+ Tikta+ Kasaya

Below mentioned one category is formed from combination of three tastes, commencing from katu rasa – sour taste,

  1. Katu+ Tikta+ Kasaya

Thus, all these put together form twenty categories of combinations of three rasas.

Categories of four tastes

चतुष्कान् वक्ष्यामः |
चतुष्करससंयोगान्मधुरो दश गच्छति |
चतुरोऽम्लोऽनुगच्छेच्च लवणस्त्वेकमेव तु ||११||

Now, combinations of four tastes shall be described.

        combination of four tastes commencing with madhura rasa- ten categories,

        combination of four tastes commencing with amla rasa – four categories,

        combination of four tastes commencing with lavana rasa – one category

These are as follows-

Categories of four tastes

मधुराम्ललवणकटुकः(१), मधुराम्ललवणतिक्तः(२), मधुराम्ललवणकषायः(३), मधुराम्लकटुकतिक्तः(४), मधुराम्लकटुकषायः(५), मधुराम्लतिक्तकषायः(६), मधुरलवणकटुकतिक्तः(७), मधुरलवणकटुकषायः(८), मधुरलवणतिक्तकषायः(९), मधुरकटुतिक्तकषायः(१०), एवमेषां दशानामादौ मधुरः प्रयुज्यते; अम्ललवणकटुतिक्तः(१), अम्ललवणकटुकषायः(२), अम्ललवणतिक्तकषायः(३), अम्लकटुतिक्तकषायः(४), एवमेषां चतुर्णामादावम्लः; लवणकटुतिक्तकषायः(१), एवमेकस्यादौ लवणः; एवमेते चतुष्करससंयोगाः पञ्चदश कीर्तिताः ||१२||

Below mentioned are the ten categories of four rasas formed from madhura rasa and other three tastes –

  1. Madhura + Amla + Lavana + Katu
  2. Madhura + Amla + Lavana +Tikta
  3. Madhura + Amla + Lavana +Kasaya
  4. Madhura +Amla+Katu+ Tikta
  5. Madhura + Amla +Katu+ Kasaya
  6. Madhura + Amla+ Tikta+ Kasaya
  7. Madhura +Lavana+Katu+Tikta
  8. Madhura +Lavana+Katu+ Kasaya
  9. Madhura +Lavana+Tikta+Kasaya
  10.                   Madhura +Katu+Tikta+Kasaya

Below mentioned are the four categories of four rasas formed from amla rasa and other three tastes –

  1. Amla +Lavana+ Katu+ Tikta
  2. Amla+ Lavana+ KAtu+ Kasaya
  3. Amla+ LAvana+  Tikta+ KAsaya
  4. Amla+ Katu+ Tikta+ Kasaya

Below mentioned is one category of four rasas formed from lavana rasa and other three tastes –

  1.   Lavana + katu+ tikta+Kasaya

Thus all together, fifteen categories of combinations of four tastes are formed.

Combination of five tastes

पञ्चकान् वक्ष्यामः |
पञ्चकान् पञ्च मधुर एकमम्लस्तु गच्छति ||१३||

Now, combinations of five tastes shall be described. They are as follows –

        madhura rasa – sweet taste would form five categories with four other tastes,

        amla rasa – sour taste would form one category with four other tastes

मधुराम्ललवणकटुतिक्तः(१), मधुराम्ललवणकटुकषायः(२), मधुराम्ललवणतिक्तकषायः(३), मधुराम्लकटुतिक्तकषायः(४), मधुरलवणकटुतिक्तकषायः(५), एवमेषां पञ्चानामादौ मधुरः प्रयुज्यते; अम्ललवणकटुतिक्तकषायः(१), एवमेकस्यादावम्लः; एवमेते षट् पञ्चकसंयोगा व्याख्याताः ||१४||

Below mentioned are the five categories formed from five tastes with madhura rasa and other four rasas –

  1. Madhura + amla + lavana + katu + tikta
  2. Madhura+ amla+ LAvana+ KAtu+ Kasaya
  3. Madhura+ Amla+ Lavana+ KAtu+ Kasaya
  4. Madhura+ Amla+ LAvana+ Katu+ Kasaya
  5. Madhura+ lavana+ Katu+Tikta+ Kasaya

Below mentioned is one category formed from five tastes with amla rasa and other four rasas –

  1. Amla+ lavana +katu+Tikta+ Kasaya

Combination of six tastes

षट्कमेकं वक्ष्यामः; एकस्तु षट्कसंयोगः- मधुराम्ललवणकटुतिक्तकषायः; एष एक एव षट्संयोगः ||१५||

All of these six put together are the categories of combinations of five tastes.

Now, the combination of six tastes shall be described.

There is only one category formed by the combination of all six tastes, such as –

  1. Madhura + amla + lavana + katu + tikta + Kaşāya

एकैकश्च षड्रसा भवन्ति- मधुरः(१), अम्लः(२), लवणः(३), कटुकः(४), तिक्तः(५), कषायः(६), इति ||१६||

Each taste considered separately, forms six categories, such as –

        Madhura – sweet

        Amla – sour,

        Lavana – salt,

        Katu – pungent,

        Tikta – bitter and

        Kasaya – astringent

भवन्ति चात्र-
एषा त्रिषष्टिर्व्याख्याता रसानां रसचिन्तकैः |
दोषभेदत्रिषष्ट्यां तु प्रयोक्तव्या विचक्षणैः ||१७||

Thus, the sixty three categories of combinations of tastes have been described. These sixty three tastes should be administered in accordance with the categories of combinations of doshas as described in chapter 66.

इति श्री सुश्रुतसंहितायामुत्तरतन्त्रे तन्त्रभूषणाध्यायेषु रसभेदविकल्पाध्यायो नाम (प्रथमः, आदितः) त्रिषष्टितमोऽध्यायः।।६३।।

Thus ends the sixty-third chapter by name Rasabheda Vikalpa in Uttara Sthana of Suśruta Samhita.

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Wondering how to lose weight after delivery with a newborn in your arms? | The Birthwave

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Sleepless nights, endless feeds, and no time for the gym? Mama, you’re not alone

The truth is — postpartum weight loss doesn’t need fancy diets or long workouts. By sneaking in tiny changes into your daily routine, you can lose baby weight naturally and safely while bonding with your little one.

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1. Take your baby for stroller walks – best post pregnancy cardio.

2. Breastfeed if possible – it helps burn calories naturally.

3. Replace refined sugar with jaggery or honey.

4. Do gentle squats or stretches while rocking your baby to sleep.

5. Drink a glass of water before every meal to avoid overeating.

6. Keep fruit & veggie snack boxes ready for quick healthy bites.

7. Try 10-min postpartum workout at home when baby naps. Need one ? Comment ‘EXERCISE’ and we’ll send you a MAMA FRIENDLY POSTPARTUM EXERCISE PLAN

8. Cut late-night snacking – switch to herbal tea.

9. Sleep when your baby sleeps – rest fuels weight loss.

10. Dance with your baby – a fun way to burn calories and bond

Remember mama: it’s not about a quick “snap back.” Losing weight after pregnancy is about feeling healthy, strong, and confident in your new body.

Save this post & share with a mom friend who’s on her postpartum fitness journey!

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Dr. Santoshi Nandigam is a Gynecologist and Obstetrician at TheBirthwave clinic, Nungambakkam, Chennai. With 13 years of overall experience, Dr Santoshi is one of the best gynecologists in chennai. She passionately supports natural birthing and normal delivery and has been conducting Childbirth Education Workshops in Chennai and Hyderabad for over a year.

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Mango Margarita

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Mango Margarita

This Mango Margarita is refreshing and tropical, with fresh lime juice for just the right amount of bright balance. Made with frozen mango, it’s a recipe you’ll bring out anytime you’ve got Mexican food on the menu!

A glass of mango margarita with a chili powder rim, ice, and lime slices, sitting on a wooden table.

You’re 5 minutes away from the best mango margarita you’ve ever tasted!

cookbook author erin clarke of well plated

Step away from the bottled mango margarita mix! It takes the same amount of time to make a mango marg from scratch when you start with frozen mango.

This, my friends, is the secret to mango margarita success. Fresh mangoes can be finicky, but frozen mangoes are always perfectly sweet because they’re picked and packaged at the peak of ripeness. 

It’s also the secret to this margarita’s ease. No slicing and pitting and dicing, just throw some frozen mango cubes into a blender. You can do this!

Let’s talk about what makes this recipe a standout.

  • Bright and Balanced. I’m not a fan of cloyingly sweet cocktails, so you’re not going to get that here. It’s fruity, sweet, and tropical, but each serving has the juice of a whole lime to bring lots of tart brightness to balance the mango.
  • No Special Equipment Needed. Just a blender! If you don’t have a full bar set-up, you’ll appreciate not having to improvise a cocktail shaker and such. 
  • Never Disappoints. When you start with sweet frozen mango (and not a bottled mixer!), you can’t go wrong.

If you adore margaritas as much as I do, don’t miss my Spicy Margarita Recipe and this St. Germain Margarita!

Two glasses of frozen mango margarita with chili powder rims and lime wedges, on a wooden table.

Ingredients and Substitutions

You’ll find the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below, but here are some notes to keep in mind.

  • Frozen Mango. If you want to use fresh mangoes, you’re still going to have to freeze it to get that thick frozen margarita vibe. (If they’re not frozen, the margarita will still be delicious, just not quite as thick.)
  • Blanco Tequila. Clean and crisp to let the mango shine.
  • Fresh Lime Juice. Don’t use bottled! Fresh has a more vibrant, dynamic flavor.
  • Cointreau or Triple Sec. Adds a subtle orange flavor. 
  • Agave Nectar. You can swap in simple syrup if you’d like, but agave is the more authentic choice.
  • Ice. More ice will make a thicker margarita, but just keep in mind it will also water down the flavor, so be careful about how much you add.
  • Salt. Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.
  • Tajin and Lime. For rimming the glass.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Rim the Glass (photo 1). Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into Tajin to coat.

Blend the Base (photo 2). In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen mango, tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, agave, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.

Adjust the Texture (photo 3). Add a couple of small handfuls of ice and blend again. Continue adding ice until you reach your desired thickness. Taste and adjust.

Serve. Pour into glasses, garnish with lime wedges, and enjoy immediately. ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

  • Heat Things Up. Add jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the blender.
  • Make It Mocktail. Skip the alcohol and add a little extra lime juice and sparkling water.
A mango margarita with a chili-rimmed glass, garnished with lime slices, sits on a wooden table.

What to Serve with Mango Margaritas

  • Tacos. Taco night is so much better when it includes a mango margarita! Try my Salmon Tacos or Shrimp Tacos
  • Other Tex-Mex Faves. Like this Healthy Taco Salad or Vegetarian Enchiladas.
  • Chips and Dip. My Homemade Guacamole and Corn Salsa are always wins.
A glass of mango margarita with a chili powder rim, ice, and lime slices, sitting on a wooden table.

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Mango Margarita

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This frozen mango margarita blends sweet mango with lime and tequila into a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for warm days and gatherings.
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Mexican
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 2 drinks
Calories 356kcal
Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen mango chunks about 8 ounces
  • ½ cup blanco tequila 4 ounces
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice 2 ounces; about 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons Cointreau 1 ounce or triple sec
  • 2 tablespoons light agave nectar 2 ounces
  • Ice
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • Lime wedges for serving and rimming
  • Tajin for rimming

Instructions

  • If desired, rim your glasses with tajin by running a lime wedge around the edge to moisten it, then dipping it in tajin to adhere.
    A hand dips a glass rim into a plate of chili seasoning, with lime wedges nearby on a wooden surface.
  • In a high-speed blender, combine the mango, tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, agave, and salt. Blend until smooth.
    Blender with mango chunks, surrounded by a plate of chili powder, limes, bitters, and a bottle of tequila.
  • Add 2 small handfuls of ice and blend. Blend, then taste and adjust the margarita as desired. If you'd like it thicker, continue adding ice until your desired consistency is reached.
    Top view of a blender with mango margarita inside; lime slices and chili powder on a plate beside it.
  • Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately, garnished with additional lime.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 356kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 313mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 41g | Vitamin A: 1800IU | Vitamin C: 73mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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Is It Worth It? (2026)

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Last updated: 2026 | This post contains affiliate links. If you enroll through my link and use the code FITNESSISTA, you’ll get up to $250 off and I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Hiiii friends! I hope you had a wonderful weekend and that you’re enjoying the morning. Today I wanted to chat about one of my favorite topics: IHP.

If you’ve been following along here for a while, you know that I’ve spent years building out my nutrition and fitness coaching practice and that I’m someone who genuinely loves learning. I’ve collected a lot of certifications over the years (Precision Nutrition, NASM Personal Trainer, Weight Loss Specialist, Women’s Fitness Specialist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, 200-hour yoga RYT, and more), and each one has added something meaningful to the way I work with clients.

But there was always a gap.

Working with nutrition clients online, I kept running into situations where I knew something deeper was going on – a hormonal imbalance, a gut issue, a mineral deficiency – and all I could do was refer out. Suggesting specific labs or interpreting test results is simply not within the scope of practice for a nutrition coach or personal trainer. I’d added other practitioners to my team who could run those tests, but as my online practice grew, I wanted to be able to do this work myself.

IHP certification

That’s what led me to the Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP) certification, and after completing both Level 1 and Level 2 (over 100 hours of coursework, continuing education, and some very challenging tests later), I can give you a thorough, honest picture of what to expect.

Interested in Enrolling? Start Here.

Use code FITNESSISTA for $100 off Level 1, or $250 off both levels.

IHP Certification Review: What I Learned, What It Costs, and Is It Worth It (2026)

What Is the IHP Certification?

The Integrative Health Practitioner certification was created by Dr. Stephen Cabral, a Board Certified Doctor of Naturopathy, founder of EquiLife and the Integrative Health Practitioner Institute, and author of the international bestseller The Rain Barrel Effect. (If you haven’t read it yet, get it. It’s free!) After nearly 20 years, over 600,000 pages of research, dozens of certifications in the natural health field, and over a quarter of a million private client sessions…. Dr. Cabral is the real deal.

I’d been following him on Instagram for a couple of years and had him as a guest on the podcast before I enrolled. When we wrapped up the podcast, I knew I wanted to learn as much as I could from him, and when the partnership came together, I took it as a sign that the timing was finally right.

The program is built on 7 integrative disciplines:

Ayurvedic medicine – the science of life and body-typing

Bioregulatory medicine – the science of self-healing and rebalancing

Chinese medicine and herbalism – unlocking nature’s healing wisdom

Eastern philosophy – using the mind to heal the body

Traditional naturopathy – “right living” to reverse illness

Orthomolecular medicine – vitamins and minerals as medicine

Functional medicine – state-of-the-art lab testing to uncover underlying root causes

Everything is taught by Dr. Cabral himself, and I genuinely enjoyed the way he presents complex information, making it accessible and easy to implement. His real-world clinical experience is invaluable, and it comes through in every lesson.

Reimagining Health Summit RecapReimagining Health Summit Recap

The Two Levels: What’s the Difference?

IHP Level 1: The DESTRESS Protocol

Level 1 focuses on Dr. Cabral’s DESTRESS method: a root-cause lifestyle framework built around Diet, Exercise, Stress management, Toxin removal, Rest, Emotional balance, Supplementation, and Success mindset.

Each lesson runs about 30 minutes, and Dr. Cabral includes suggested reading, complementary podcast episodes, and tons of client-ready handouts and resources throughout. The full Level 1 course can take around 6 months depending on your pace. It’s super comprehensive.

I loved Level 1. I found myself learning something valuable from every single lesson. But it’s the big-picture foundation and it builds your framework and vocabulary. The application really comes in Level 2.

Want the full breakdown? Read my complete IHP Level 1 review here.

IHP Level 2: Functional Labs

This is where things got really exciting for me. During each module I kept thinking: this is exactly what I want to learn. This is how I want to help my clients.

Level 2 is almost entirely focused on functional medicine labs. You learn how to recommend specific home lab tests, analyze results, and suggest action plans based on what you find.

Here’s what’s covered:

Food Sensitivity Testing: IgG reactions to 190 foods on a scale from not significant to high. These are sensitivities (not allergies) and can show up as headaches, joint pain, skin rashes, poor mood, and more.

Parasite and Bacteria Stool Testing:  key gut bacteria and parasite markers connected to brain fog, low energy, body pain, and headaches.

Organic Acids (OAT): an evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria that can contribute to fatigue, behavior issues, immune dysfunction, and more. Many people with chronic illness and neurological issues show up here. I run this test with clients almost every single day.

Omega-3 Testing – your Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio, which has real implications for heart health, inflammation, mood, energy, skin, and muscle and joint pain. (Fun fact: research shows that when Omega-3 levels in the blood reach 9% or more, the risk of sudden cardiac death drops dramatically. That alone was eye-opening.)

Adrenal Hormone Testing – estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol patterns throughout the day.

Thyroid Adrenal Hormone Testing – adds testosterone, DHEA, thyroid markers (T4, T3, TSH, TPO antibodies), insulin, A1C, and vitamin D. Weight loss has far more to do with hormone balance and metabolism than most people realize.

HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) – a foundational lab using just a hair sample that looks at mineral levels, electrolytes, and toxic heavy metals, and gives insight into how your body is responding to stress and whether you’re a slow or fast oxidizer.

Note: these labs are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease, but they provide incredibly specific and actionable information about your individual body. I actually love this aspect of the labs; we’re looking for underlying imbalances but nothing scary.

About two-thirds of the way through Level 2, I realized that if I kept trying to master every module before moving on, I’d never finish, because you could honestly spend a lifetime going deep on any one of these tests. The best way to really learn this material is to do it: read real results, re-watch the relevant module as you go through each marker, and keep layering in podcasts, books, and continuing education. That’s still how I approach it.

For the full Level 2 breakdown, read my IHP Level 2 review here

How Much Does the IHP Cost?

Pricing can change, so I always recommend checking current enrollment details directly.

That said:

Level 1 is the lower-cost entry point, with payment plan options available

Both levels together is where the bigger investment (and bigger discount) comes in. I think that Level 2 is ABSOLUTELY worth it. (Worth saying here that I’m currently working my way through Level 3 and loving every second)

Use code FITNESSISTA for $100 off Level 1, or $250 off both levels

IHP also periodically runs enrollment specials, so it’s worth keeping an eye out if timing is a factor for you.

For context on value: the functional lab training alone – something very few coach-level certifications offer at this depth – would cost significantly more if pursued through individual courses or clinical training programs.

What I Actually Love About the IHP Program

It fills a real gap in traditional health coaching. As a nutrition coach and personal trainer, there’s a hard ceiling on how deep you can go with clients. The IHP certification – especially Level 2 – gave me tools to actually get to root causes, not just offer general lifestyle guidance.

Dr. Cabral is genuinely one of the good ones. If you follow him on Instagram or listen to his podcast, you already know this. He’s incredibly knowledgeable, but you can also just tell that he’s a genuinely good person who truly wants to help people heal. That comes through in every lesson.

The support structure is excellent. There’s a private Facebook group for IHP candidates and certified practitioners, live Zoom Q&A calls, and – for Level 2 graduates who complete an additional mentorship program – they’ll even refer clients to you directly. The handouts and resources are another huge plus; Dr. Cabral shares the exact protocols he uses in his own practice, which makes it easy to start implementing with clients right away.

Self-paced with lifetime access. No cohort deadlines to stress over. You can move quickly when life allows and slow down when it doesn’t. (This is why it’s taken me 18 years to complete Level 3 lol.) They’re also constantly adding new modules, handouts, and content to the platform.

You don’t need a health background to start. We have IHPs who completely changed careers because of this program, and also physical therapists, nurses, doctors, personal trainers, and dental professionals. It truly spans backgrounds.

The mission behind it is beautiful. The idea is that you heal yourself and then go on to heal others. That’s something I believe in completely, and it’s been extra meaningful to me as I’ve been on my own healing journey.

What I’d Tell You to Know Going In

The lessons require your full attention. This was my only real frustration: Dr. Cabral goes into a lot of information (even more so in Level 2), and I felt like I needed to be at my desk taking notes, not listening on a walk or during a commute. The upside is it forces you to actually absorb the material, but you can’t blast through it as quickly as you might want to.

It’s not a clinical credential. The IHP does not give you the authority to diagnose, treat, or prescribe. This is true of all health coaching certifications, and it’s something to go in knowing. You’re working within the scope of a health practitioner, which is still meaningful and impactful; it’s just a different lane than medicine.

You’ll need to purchase your own insurance after Level 2. Most grads go through a company like Alternative Balance. It’s fairly easy to set up, but it’s an ongoing cost to factor into your planning. (I think I pay about $160/year)

It takes real time. Level 1 typically takes around 6 months; Level 2 can take 6 months to a year. There’s no shortcut, and honestly, that’s appropriate for the amount of material covered.

Is the IHP Worth It in 2026?

For me, 10000% yes.

I want to be honest about why, though. I came to this already working in the health space, with a specific gap I needed to fill and a genuine passion for this type of work. IHP filled that gap. I’ve been able to add a new layer to my 1:1 coaching, work with family members and friends using these tools, and deepen my own healing process with knowledge I didn’t have before. (The timing was extra meaningful for me personally. Dealing with some unexpected health issues of my own made the functional lab material feel incredibly relevant.)

I’ve also been the person who was told “nothing is wrong” or “you’ll just have to live with it” by multiple physicians. I know firsthand how much it matters to have someone in your corner who thinks in root causes, who doesn’t give up on you when standard labs look “normal.” That’s the kind of practitioner I want to be, and IHP gave me real tools to get there.

If you’re a health professional looking for another way to serve your clients, or if you’re someone who wants to heal yourself and then help the people around you, I genuinely can’t recommend this program enough. I’d do both levels, especially if functional labs are your goal. That’s where the real magic happens.

Check out the IHP program and use code FITNESSISTA for up to $250 off

I only recommend programs I’ve personally completed and believe in. Enrolling through my link supports this blog at no extra cost to you.

Quick FAQs

Do I need a health background to enroll?

Nope! The program is open to everyone: career changers, health professionals, and genuinely curious people alike.

Can I just do Level 1?

Yes. Level 1 is its own certification. But if functional lab work is your goal, you’ll want both levels. I’d start with Level 1 to make sure the material resonates, then continue to Level 2. (If you purchase both at the same time, the pricing is better, though.)

How long does it take to finish?

Level 1 is typically around 6 months at a comfortable pace; Level 2 is similar or a bit longer. There’s no time limit, so you can go at whatever pace works for your life.

What can I actually do with this certification?

You can add functional health coaching to your existing practice, create new 1:1 or group offerings, use it to deepen your own personal health knowledge, and contribute to content you create. Level 2 graduates also have the option to receive client referrals through the IHP network.

Is there community support while you’re going through it?

Yes! The private Facebook group is active and genuinely helpful. And Dr. Cabral’s podcast (The Cabral Concept) is an ongoing resource that I still use regularly.

Check out the details here and my code is FITNESSISTA for your discount

Have questions about the IHP that I didn’t cover here? Drop them in the comments. I read every single one and am happy to help!

xo,

Gina

I’ll be updating this post annually to reflect any changes in pricing, curriculum, or program details.

Fruit is evil

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Black Bean Burgers with Chipotle Mayonnaise

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This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

These black bean burgers are so hearty and flavorful, you won’t miss the meat! I love that they’re high-fiber, made with pantry staples like canned black beans, oats, and spices, which means they’re budget-friendly too.

Hand holding veggie burger with bite taken out

Spicy Black Bean Burger Recipe

Of all the vegetarian meals I’ve posted on the blog, I think these black bean burgers are one of the first. I loved them so much, I even published them in my first cookbook! Because this recipe is one I make often at home, I figured it was time to revisit it! If you’ve been disappointed by veggie burgers in the past, these black bean burgers will change your mind. While bean burgers have a tendency to be mushy, these have a great texture, with a nice crust on the outside and they’re firm enough that they hold together well. And the flavor is amazing! Serve them with chipotle sweet potato fries for the perfect Meatless Monday dinner.

My Family’s Favorite Veggie Burgers

Gina @ Skinnytaste.com

Make no mistake, I love meat. But these black bean burgers are good enough to please all the carnivores in my home. I think the secret is that they’re not pretending to be beef burgers. Instead, you get spicy bean and oat patties topped with chipotle mayo and creamy avocado.

We try to do Meatless Mondays each week and these black bean burgers have become one of our staple vegetarian meals. They’re inexpensive, full of big flavor, and great for prepping in advance. I have a feeling you’re going to love them too!

Gina signature

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients for homemade black bean burgers

Below are the ingredients for these black bean burgers. See the recipe card for exact measurements.

For the Spicy Chipotle Mayo:

  • Light mayonnaise: I like using Hellman’s light.
  • Chipotle peppers in adobo adds smoky heat to complement the spicy burger patties.

For the Black Bean Burgers:

  • Black beans: Drain off the liquid and then rinse them well. I like to let them sit in a colander for a bit to let all the water drain off so they’re completely dry.
  • Red bell pepper: Yellow or orange bell pepper will also work here.
  • Scallions, cilantro, and garlic: These add savory and fresh flavors to the burger patties.
  • Egg helps bind the mixture.
  • Cumin and hot sauce: You can use as much hot sauce as you like, or skip it altogether for mild black bean burgers. The cumin adds earthy, warm flavor.
  • Kosher salt: Adjust the amount to taste.
  • Quick oats: If you use gluten-free oats, these patties are gluten-free.
  • Buns: I like 100-calorie buns to keep things lighter.
  • Avocado for creaminess and to balance the heat.

How to Make Black Bean Burgers

These black bean burgers are easy to prep and cook. Here’s what you’ll need to do to make them.

  • Make the chipotle mayo: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and chipotle in adobo. 
  • Mash the beans: Use a fork to mash the beans in a medium bowl.
  • Chop the vegetables: In a food processor, pulse the bell pepper, scallions, cilantro, and garlic until chopped. Add the oats, then the egg and spices, and pulse to combine.
  • Combine everything: Stir the vegetable mixture into the mashed beans until well combined.
  • Form the patties: Using lightly oiled hands, divide the mixture into four patties. Place them on a flat surface lined with wax paper. If the mixture feels wet, you can chill for 30 minutes or add extra oats.
  • Freeze the patties: Freeze the patties for at least 2 hours, or until firm. 
  • Cook the burgers: Heat a skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat and cook the patties for about 7 minutes per side.
  • Alternative cooking methods: You can also grill them on foil over medium heat for 7 to 8 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F on a lightly oiled baking sheet until heated through and crisp.

Tips from Gina’s Test Kitchen

  • Dry the beans: Extra moisture is the main reason veggie burgers fall apart or have a mushy texture. 
  • Shape them perfectly: I use my buns as a guide for how large to make the patties. You don’t want the patties hanging off of the buns! You also want to make sure they’re not too thick (because then the centers will still be cold when the outsides are done) or too thin (which makes them prone to falling apart). Use your hands to press the patties together a bit; this also helps them hold together.
  • Factor in the freezing for your prep time: These black bean burgers cook best if frozen, so plan for the 2 hours of freezing time. Usually I make these burgers as a meal prep dinner, keeping a stash in the freezer for our Meatless Mondays.
Adding chipotle mayo to homemade black bean burgers.
Skinnytaste High Protein cookbook protein

Cook: 20 minutes

Total: 2 hours 40 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Serving Size: 1 burger w/ mayo, bun + avocado

For the Spicy Chipotle Mayo:

For the Black Bean Burgers:

  • Combine mayonnaise and chipotle, set aside.

  • Dry the beans well after washing, extra moisture will keep the burgers from sticking.

  • In a medium bowl, mash beans with a fork until thick and pasty.

  • In a food processor, finely chop bell pepper, cilantro, onion, and garlic, then add oats, then eggs and spices.

  • Then stir into mashed beans.

  • Divide mixture into four patties (using slightly oiled hands helps) and place them onto a flat surface covered with wax paper. (If it’s too wet, chill the mixture 30 minutes in the refrigerator or add another tablespoon of oats)

  • Freeze at least 2 hours before cooking or keep frozen until ready to cook.

  • Heat a lightly sprayed skillet to medium heat and cook frozen burgers about 7 minutes on each side.

  • If grilling, preheat grill over medium heat, and lightly oil a sheet of aluminum foil; grill 7-8 minutes on each side or you can bake in the oven at 375° on a lightly oiled baking sheet.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Serving: 1 burger w/ mayo, bun + avocado, Calories: 362.5 kcal, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 18 g, Fat: 14 g, Sodium: 786.5 mg, Fiber: 15 g, Sugar: 7 g

Sweet summer corn lightly coated with lime infused mayonnaise, a touch of hot chili powder and cojita cheese. Also known as the Mexican street corn salad, elote

4

15 mins

Crispy french fries made in the air-fryer

1

20 mins

Crispy baked avocado fries coated with panko breadcrumbs with a lime dipping sauce. So fast and easy to make in the oven or air fryer!

6

15 mins

Cucumber Tomato Salad

3

15 mins

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store cooked black bean burgers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen.
  • To reheat: Warm the patties in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then assemble the burgers as desired.
Veggie burger on a wood cutting board

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