beginning of navratri
The festival of Navratri has started, in which devotees worship Goddess Durga for 9 days. Many people eat fruits during this period, but there are some who have to face diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. Such people should take special care of their health during the fast. If you are planning to keep a fast for 9 days, then it is important to keep some important things in mind. We discussed this topic with Dr. Anjali Phatak, Dietitian and Director of NutriPlus.
Effects on health during fasting
Dietician Anjali Phatak said that due to fasting many people remain hungry for a long time. Some people also change the time of taking their medicines, which can cause fluctuations in sugar levels. During this time, people do yoga and exercise, as well as perform Garba, but do not drink sufficient amount of water. All these reasons can have a negative impact on health.
Ways to control sugar
Anjali Phatak suggested that some people take medicine during fasting, which can lead to hyperglycemia. Many people remain hungry throughout the day and eat a lot of food in the evening, which is high in sugar and carbohydrates. Due to this, the sugar level in the body can suddenly increase. Therefore, avoid staying hungry throughout the day. Drink water every now and then, eat seasonal fruits, consume lemon water and buttermilk. This will keep the body hydrated and sugar will also be controlled.
What to eat?
Diabetic patients should increase the amount of protein and fiber in their diet. Consume citrus fruits, curd, buttermilk, nuts and whole grains. Whole grains include buckwheat flour cheela and idli. Avoid fried foods. Eat gourd and pumpkin vegetable and samak rice. These are beneficial for your stomach. Bottle gourd raita is also a good option, which keeps the stomach full and keeps sugar under control.
Tips for BP patients
BP patients should avoid fried foods. Avoid chips and processed foods as they contain preservatives. Eat makhana, date laddu, pomegranate, apple, seasonal fruits, coriander chutney, salad and smoothie without sugar. All these things help in maintaining energy in the body. Take medicine regularly and do yoga and exercise daily.
The right way to break the fast
While breaking the fast in the evening, eat a balanced amount of food. Eating too much food suddenly can cause acidity and constipation. Reduce consumption of sago items.