By Aishwarya Sahasrabudhe
July 16, 2023
Sawan or Shravan means a month-long period of abstaining from certain foods to practice control over the mind and body. This is the time to detox and improve gut health for overall wellness. Here are some foods which are avoided both, culturally and for detox during Sawan.
Shravan falls during monsoon, a time when the body's digestive fire slows down. Non-vegetarian food which is heavy on the stomach is avoided during Sawan, on both, fasting and non-fasting days.
Produce that grows underground and can easily contract bacteria during humid climes is generally avoided during Sawan. This means recipes are fashioned by excluding flavours of onion and garlic.
Avoid cooking food in excessive quantities of oil and masalas. Sawan is a time for abstinence from rich and indulgent dishes. Eat vegetables lightly seasoned with cumin and chillies for smooth digestion.
Try to refrain from drinking fruit juices that come in cartons or bottles. They are loaded with sweeteners and preservatives which take away the significance of fasting and controlling sugar cravings.
Fasting means reducing the intake of certain food groups for detoxification. A stringent fast in Sawan means avoiding wheat and semolina as well as rice. Varai or millets can instead be eaten for a good carb intake.
Avoid leafy vegetables which quickly attract bacteria in monsoons. The increased microbial load can affect digestion.
Drinking alcohol in Sawan is a cultural no-no. Since Sawan is associated with abstinence, alcohol and liqeurs are not consumed during this month to reduce craving and temptation.
On religious occasions, brinjals are excluded from meal plans because they are considered inauspicious. Brinjals are avoided in Sawan due to their tendency to attract worms and insects in monsoons.