Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Published : October 9, 2014 3:43 PM IST
October 11, 2014 is Karva Chauth.
Indian women observe the Karva Chauth fast for a long life of their beloved husband. However, the day-long fast of eating before sunrise and after the moon is out can make you uncomfortable. You may face health issues like acidity, nausea and low blood pressure or completely run out of energy. Well-known nutritionist Priya Kathpal gives us tips to fill you up with energy and help you survive the day while you fast.
Before the fast
Traditionally, Karva Chauth fast is observed by eating 'sargi' early in the morning before sunrise. The meal usually includes sweets like 'pheni' (milk and semolina), salted vegetables, flat breads or aloo parathas and some fruits, nuts and dry fruits. After this, one does not consume even a drop of water till the moon appears. If you plan to go the traditional way, make sure you eat right and hydrate yourself well to keep going till night.
Have wholegrain flat bread with some cottage cheese in it instead of potato. This will make sure you get some proteins along with carbohydrates. To avoid developing acidity and gas, make sure your meal is low-fat and is not too heavy on the stomach. Add a lightly sugared sweet as this will avoid the hunger pangs later in the day.
Also, make sure you have at least 1 fruit and nuts like almonds, walnuts, dates or fig to go with it. This will add a concentrated source of energy to your meal. Adding coconut water or lemon juice instead of plain water will adds essential electrolytes.
During the fast
With the changing lifestyle and stressful work profiles, some women prefer fasting with little modifications like sipping some water, tea or coffee. Few of them also consume fruits and dry fruits at regular intervals. If you are fasting the modified way, you can start your day with the same meal minus dry fruits, fruits and coconut water.
These items can be added later in the day when you really feel the need. Avoid consuming too much tea or coffee. Also, avoid eating anything fried and high in sugar items during fasting. As the gap is going to be long between the meals, cutting down on these foods will help you avoid unnecessary stress on the digestive system.
After the fast
You should break the fast subtly. You can start with sips of water or juice to hydrate yourself first. Post this, adding some protein-rich food would be a good idea. Avoid eating too sweet and fried foods immediately after the fast. A balanced meal along with some celebratory food to enjoy your evening is the best way to go. A complete meal would ideally include vegetables, cottage cheese or curds, wholegrains in the form of rotis or chapatis, some rice with pulses or dal and some sweet. Including buttermilk is also a good way to re-hydrate yourself.
It s not advisable for women with medical conditions like diabetes, low BP, low Hb levels to observe the fast especially the traditional way. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid the fast too. In any case of medical conditions call for a physician's clearance before you decide to fast in extreme ways. Apart from staying energetic, you may also want to look your best this Karva Chauth. Some of these make-up tips will help you with it.
Image source: Getty Images
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