Chaitra Navratri 2024: 5 Common Fasting Mistakes To Avoid
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The celebration of Chaitra Navratri has begun, and Goddess Durga's followers everywhere are excited about it. Since it ushers in the Hindu New Year, it is one of the most significant Hindu holidays. Chaitra Navratri is a nine-day festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama that ends on Ram Navami. The nine incarnations of Goddess Durga are honoured on these nine days.

Most individuals who observe this fast consider it to be helpful since it is always done with sattvicism and the principles of Ayurveda in mind—especially during ritual fasting during Hindu festivals. But when it comes to diet, there are a lot of common mistakes individuals make that make a Navratri Sattvik fast everything but healthy.

Skipping Meals

Meal skipping is one of the most common blunders individuals make during the Navratri fast. Starving oneself is not the purpose of fasting. Even when fasting, eating a balanced meal is crucial. Lack of food can cause blood sugar levels to plummet, which can result in weariness, weakness, and dizziness.

Throughout the day, concentrate on eating modest, regular meals rather than skipping any. Consume a range of nuts, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. This will support you in sustaining your energy levels and provide your body with the nourishment it needs.

Over-Relying On Fried Foods

During the Navratri fast, fried foods like vadas, pakoras, and puris are frequently consumed. Even though these dishes can seem delicious, it's vital to keep in mind that eating too many fried foods might be bad for your health.

Foods that are fried are heavy in calories and bad fats, which can cause weight gain and other health problems. Choose healthier substitutes like baked, grilled, or boiled items in place of fried ones. To keep your diet balanced, you may also enjoy foods like fruits, salads, and yoghurt.

Not Being Mindful Of Your Requirements

Ignoring your dietary needs is never justified during fasting. It is crucial to make sure that, while fasting during Navratri, you are obtaining all the nutrients you need. Maintaining excellent health and well-being requires eating a balanced diet.

Ascertain that you are receiving all the nutrients you require by including a diverse range of foods in your diet. Make sure your meals include dairy products, fruits, and veggies. Your nutritional demands will be met and any inadequacies will be avoided.

Not Hydrating Enough

It's easy to forget to consume enough water while fasting. Headaches, weariness, and constipation are just a few of the health issues that can result from dehydration. Drinking enough water is crucial, particularly during extended fasting hours.

Throughout the day, make sure you have at least eight to ten glasses of water. Other hydrating drinks, like buttermilk, herbal teas, and coconut water, can also be added. Carbonated drinks and sugary drinks should be avoided, as they might dehydrate you.

Overeating After The Fast

It's normal to feel ravenous at the end of a fast and overindulge in large meals. However, overindulging in food after a fast might strain your digestive tract and cause pain.

Rather than overindulging, choose healthy, light meals. Start with a modest serving and pay attention to your body's signals of hunger. Eat carefully, chewing and enjoying every bite. This will help with improved digestion in addition to preventing overeating.