Studies indicate that intermittent fasting can help in improving a person’s blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. Chaitra or Basant Navratri is observed at the start of the summer for preparing the body to tolerate summer. Fasting is an integral aspect of this festival in India, making Navratri a process of detoxifying the body, mind, and soul. Some fast for religious reasons, and others do it to cut back on unwanted calories and lose weight.
Fast (vrat) does not mean ‘not eating’ but rather controlling desires and simultaneously cultivating positive mental attitudes. Body detoxification involves special Navratri diet principles of eating less, once a day with no cereals. Rajgira flour used during this season is a good source of Vitamins A, B6, K, and C, as also folate, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, iron (60% of RDA), copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. Cooked amaranth is also 90% digestible. Tips for fasting:
nPlan your diet especially if you have medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Do not skip your medication schedule. Keep a healthy snack handy for those cravings.
nKeep yourself hydrated by drinking water, coconut water, green tea, buttermilk, and lime juice. Avoid aerated drinks.
nAvoid gorging on salty ‘vrat snacks’. Eat something that is boiled or roasted instead.
nUse rock salt in your food instead of usual salt as it helps in better mineral absorption. It is also beneficial for those who have high or low blood pressure.
nEat lighter meals as it aids digestion.
nFor dessert, you can try eating dates or fruit yogurt. Also, add honey instead of sugar.
nEat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.