How “Merit Makers” Can Offer Alms for Monks’ Good Health

How “Merit Makers” Can Offer Alms for Monks’ Good Health
      The important Buddhist holidays, Asalha Bucha Day and Buddhist Lent Day 2025, are approaching once again. Many Buddhists are likely preparing food offerings and requisites to present to the monks. But have you ever asked yourself: “Are the foods you plan to offer actually suitable?” Most of the time, we tend to choose what we personally like, or what our departed loved ones preferred, forgetting that it is the monks who will consume the food we offer. So, for the sake of the monks’ health.

Health issues monks face… caused by “alms food”
      Nowadays, monks are increasingly facing chronic illnesses, such as :

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Obesity from high-calorie diets

      A major cause is the food received from lay people—especially dishes that are “delicious but unhealthy,” such as white rice served with deep-fried, greasy, or salty foods, and large amounts of sweet desserts, all commonly found in alms bowls.

How to offer food… that supports monks’ health

• Choose boiled, steamed, or grilled foods instead of fried ones Examples : Clear soups, stir-fried vegetables with little oil, boiled eggs, grilled fish Avoid : Fried chicken, fatty pork belly, or dishes with rich coconut milk curries
• Reduce sugar, oil, and salt Avoid very sweet Thai desserts, greasy snacks, and pickled items If you wish to offer desserts, try dried bananas, sticky rice with banana, or fresh fruits instead
• Use brown rice instead of white rice Brown rice helps control blood sugar levels and provides fiber. Even if monks don’t eat it every day, offering it occasionally is still beneficial.
• Add fresh vegetables and fruits Help monks get balanced nutrients Recommended fruits: guava, rose apple, orange, apple Vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, boiled or fresh greens are also great additions
• Avoid sugary drinks Skip soft drinks and sugary cartons Choose : plain water or unsweetened herbal drinks like pandan or lemongrass water
• Cook meals at home when possible Control ingredients, ensure cleanliness and hygiene Use less seasoning, MSG, fish sauce, and sugar—this can prevent long-term health issues

      The best almsgiving isn’t about “offering more” or “offering what we think tastes good,” but about offering food that helps keep monks healthy, so they can continue fulfilling their spiritual duties. As Buddhists, we should be mindful of what we offer, as monks live a monastic life that does not promote physical activity. So it’s our responsibility to support their health through the food we give—this is a form of merit in itself.


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