Navratri fasting and health
navratri fasting healthFor the devotees, the festival of Navratri is a symbol of devotion and power, in which the devotees observe a strict fast for nine days to please the Mother Goddess. This fasting is especially challenging for those who are suffering from diabetes. It can be a difficult task for them to control blood sugar levels.
Changes in diet and prolonged fasting can cause blood sugar levels to suddenly drop (hypoglycemia) or rise (hyperglycemia). Doctors say that with proper precautions and the right diet plan, diabetic patients can fast safely.
what to eat and what not to eat
Choose complex carbohydrates during the fast: eat buckwheat flour, water chestnut flour, rajgira and sama rice. Instead of deep-frying them, it is better to prepare them in less oil in the form of roti, cheela or khichdi.
Include protein and fiber
Include sugar-free curd, buttermilk, cheese and makhana in your diet. These foods will keep you feeling full for longer and prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar.
avoid these
Stay away from potatoes, sago, fried foods, sweets, bananas, sapota and packaged juices, as these have very high glycemic index.