It’s that time of the year, when Karwa Chauth is around the corner, and excitement is at its peak. After all, married women (or even unmarried sometimes) generally observe this fast for a long and prosperous life of their husbands or partners. On this day, women dress up in their finest best, apply mehendi, and go without consuming even a drop of water or food all day. They open their fast only after worshipping the moon. More often than not, a lot of women reach out for their favourite foods or tea and coffee after completing the fast. But is it the right approach? What are some of the foods and drinks women can have that do not harm their health?
To help us understand this better, we have none other than renowned nutritionist Dr Lovneet Batra.
These are some of the healthy foods and beverages to have after your Karwa Chauth fast:
1. Almonds
It’s definitely a good idea to open your fast with almonds! After all, this dry fruit is packed with a range of nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, protein, riboflavin, zinc and more. A handful of almonds can really help you feel satiated for long, and can make up for all the energy loss that you went through all day. You could choose to have it plain, roasted or even flavoured.
2. Coconut water
Yes, we know you want to have a cup of your favourite chai or coffee, but ladies that’s only going to cause acidity and vomiting. Instead, go for coconut water. It contains natural sugar, which will instantly fill you with energy. Moreover, since you have been without water all day, the electrolytes present in it will hydrate you well.
3. Pomegranate
You could also have a bowl of pomegranate, which has natural sugar. It will not just fill you with energy, but also offer a host of health benefits. This fruit is also packed with antioxidants, and is said to enhance the digestive process. Moreover, it is light on the stomach, and that’s most important after a fast. You can also drink a glass of juice, if you like.
4. Yoghurt
You could either eat yoghurt by itself, or pair it with your favourite fruit. As we already know, it is good for the gut all thanks to its probiotic properties. So, even when you’ve been hungry for hours, a bowl of dahi will make up for it by providing all the good bacteria. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?
5. Leafy green vegetables
You could also consume sautéed leafy vegetables after a day-long fast. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, and are packed with fibre. You could go for spinach or broccoli, or even lettuce and cabbage. Use it in a salad, soup, or in the form of a stew.
The last word
Dr Batra has another piece of advice. “Before the fast, hydrate your body with at least 500 ml water, and before having tea or coffee, have soaked nuts and raisins.”