Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector 8, Faridabad

Chaitra Navratri has already started. It is an auspicious Hindu festival that lasts for 9 days. Devotees celebrate it by worshipping 9 different forms of Goddess Durga and observing fast. When observing fast, it’s crucial to have a balanced diet to remain fit to enjoy the festivities. So, if you plan to observe fast, here are some tips to stay fit and what to eat and avoid from the best dieticians.

Foods to eat

• Juicy fruits and vegetables: As Chaitra Navratri falls in summer, it’s important to remain hydrated in the warm weather. Juicy fruits and vegetables are a must in your diet whether you fast or not. Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, grapes, bananas, tomatoes, and cucumbers provide good fibre and keep you hydrated the entire day. These fruits and vegetables also contain essential vitamins and minerals that help maintain energy levels throughout the day and improve immunity levels.
• Foods rich in carbohydrates and protein: Foods rich in carbohydrates and protein will help you keep you energized all day and keep you full for a longer duration. Food items like paneer, kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour), sabudana, samak rice (barnyard millet) and potatoes can be used to prepare tasty and healthy dishes during Navratri.
• Dairy products: Dairy products are a very good source of vitamins and calcium. Products like curd, buttermilk and yoghurt are also rich in probiotics, which will improve your gut health and brighten the mood.
• Dry fruits: Dry fruits are great source of proteins, vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, and minerals like copper and magnesium. These also contain antioxidants, which help the body fight against various infections and illnesses. Eating these also helps you remain full for a long time.

Foods to avoid

• Fried and spicy foods: Avoid eating fried and spicy foods as these foods are high in salt and oil. These foods can be heavy on the digestive system and cause acidity and irritation in the stomach.
• Processed Juice: Always try to have fresh juice instead of processed juice. These juices contain high levels of added sugar, which can lead to tooth decay and weight gain.
• Tea and Coffee: Don’t drink tea or coffee empty stomach. Replace these with healthier options like coconut water and fresh juices. Drinking more tea and coffee can also lead to dehydration.
• Sugar: Sugar intake always increases during festivals as you tend to consume more sweets. This can lead to sudden increase in blood sugar spike. Instead of sugar, try using jaggery or honey for your sweet cravings.

Things to remember

• Choose your food options wisely and include fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Drink plenty of water and fresh juices to remain hydrated and energized in this warm weather.
• Control your portion size for fried and sweet foods.
• Stay active and do mild exercises daily.
• Take proper rest.

If you feel the need for medical attention visit your nearest physician. To get more specialised diet tips from expert dieticians visit us at Sarvodaya Hospital (Sec 8, Sec 19 Faridabad or Greater Noida West) or call: 1800 313 1414.