Pilgrims embarking on the Amarnath Yatra this year will have no access to fast food along the route. Greater Kashmir reported on Friday, June 9, that the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board had issued the mandate banning a list of food items for yatris ahead of the 2023 pilgrimage. On the list of banned food items are puri, bhature, pizza, burgers, stuffed parathas, dosas, fried rotis, bread with butter, cream-based foods, pickles, chutneys, fried papads, chowmein, karrah, and all other fried and fast food items, and cold drinks.
Indian sweets like halwa, jalebi, gulab jamun, laddu, khoya burfi, rasgulla, and all other halwai items, crunchy snacks (high in fat and salts), chips, matthi, namkeen mixture, pakora, samosa, fried dry fruits, and all other deep fried items are also on the list of banned foods, the report stated.
The move comes amid concerns over yatris suffering from altitude sickness and other health-related issues as they trek up to 14,000 ft above feet level to visit the shrine. The Board has further advised all yatris to make use of the medical check-up facilities provided along the trail to ensure that they complete the pilgrimage in optimal physical state. Intoxicants of all kinds as well as meat are already banned on the route.
The 14 km long trail for the yatra is dotted with over 120 community kitchens (langars) as well as shops and food stalls. The pilgrimage this year begins from July 1 to August 31, lasting 62 days. As many as 500,000 yatris are expected to traverse the route.
At altitudes as high as 14,000 feet, it's important to follow certain food and drink guidelines to maintain one’s well-being and reduce the risk of altitude-related health issues. The general recommendations include (but are not limited to):
Staying hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial at high altitudes. Drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water, is essential to stay hydrated and compensate for increased water loss due to dry air and higher respiration rates. Excessive consumption of diuretic beverages like alcohol and caffeinated drinks should be avoided, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Eating a balanced diet: Consuming a balanced diet that includes a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats is par for the course. Carbohydrates provide energy, while proteins aid in muscle repair and recovery. Healthy fats can help provide sustained energy. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts must be included in one’s meals.
Consuming light and easily digestible meals: This helps in avoiding digestive discomfort at high altitudes. Foods that are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates are beneficial. Heavy, greasy, and spicy foods that can be difficult to digest must be avoided.
Paying attention to food safety and hygiene: Any food that is consumed must be prepared and handled in a hygienic manner. Raw or undercooked foods should be avoided, as they may increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. Washing one’s hands before eating and choosing food vendors with good hygiene practices is advisable.
Snacking on energy-rich foods: Carrying high-energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, energy bars, or trail mix helps in providing quick bursts of energy when needed. These snacks also rate high on the convenience factor.
At higher altitudes, the body requires more calories to compensate for increased energy expenditure and higher metabolic rates. Including calorie-dense foods in your diet, such as nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and whole-fat dairy products, is helpful in meeting the increased energy needs. Further, it is good practice to incorporate iron-rich and antioxidant-rich foods, dietary supplements, lightweight and nutritious foods when planning for physically challenging treks like the Amarnath Yatra.