While it’s tempting to give in to the array of sweets and savoury treats, maintaining a healthy Diwali diet is essential to ensure that the celebrations don’t take a toll on your well-being. By following these tips, you can have a joyous and healthy Diwali, savouring the delights of the season without compromising your well-being.
Why Should We Maintain A Healthy Diwali Diet?
Diwali is a time of celebration, and it’s entirely okay to enjoy the festive foods. The key is moderation and making conscious choices to prioritise your health. “Festivals and rituals are always marked around the change of seasons. This is our prevailing ancient wisdom. Religious rituals with certain special kinds of food or diet are insisted on to optimise the
digestive system and prepare for seasonal changes, ” explains Dr Karthiyayini Mahadevan, Head Of Wellness and Wellbeing, Columbia Pacific Communities.
“Diwali falls at the beginning of early winter. There is a change of weather from Monsoon to early winter. There is a need to provide warmth through building the distribution of fat as a protective shield. It is achieved through specific food taken in along with the special diet,” she adds.
So, should you stop enjoying these sweets? “Everyone cannot tolerate this particularly fat-rich food. Everyone must balance their nutrition according to their constitution and eat in moderation. Ayurveda insists on Mitha Aahara, Mitha Vihaara and Mitha Aayasa, which means moderation in food, moderation in activity and moderation in rest, the three pillars of lifestyle one needs to lead for a healthy life,” she advises.
Amidst the festivities, it’s easy to lose track of what and how much you’re eating. Practice mindful eating by savouring each bite, chewing slowly, and paying attention to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness. This can prevent overeating and promote better digestion.
Also read: 6 Diwali Markets In India Where You Can Go For Festive Shopping!
Some Strategies To Follow For A Healthy Diwali?
It brings families and friends together, and one of the central aspects of the festivities is the abundance of delicious food. But some strategies must be maintained:
1. Mindful Eating
Amidst the festivities, it’s easy to lose track of what and how much you’re eating. “Reduce the carbohydrates in regular meals. The carbohydrates should be sourced as complex carbohydrates. Avoid deep-fried food along with fatty and oily meals,” she suggests.
2. Include Nutritious Foods
Incorporate snacks that are not only tasty but also nutritious. “Consider avoiding animal protein. Eat main meals at the right time, particularly early dinner, which should be with no animal protein and fat and should have complex carbohydrates. Include a lot of oil seeds laddu with natural sugar,” Dr Mahadevan advises.
3. Hydrate Well
With all the festive foods around, it’s easy to forget about staying hydrated. Make a conscious effort to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is crucial for digestion and overall well-being.
4. Limit Processed Foods
Processed and packaged foods often contain hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, and excessive salt. Minimise the consumption of these items and focus on fresh, whole foods.
5. Help Others Follow A Healthy Diet
“Be thoughtful in designing Diwali gifts, preferably go for dry fruits and natural sugar-based sweets. It is better to choose homemade sweets and savouries,” she says. While it’s tempting to buy the readily available ones, consider making your own at home. This way, you have control over the ingredients and can opt for healthier alternatives like jaggery instead of refined sugar.
Do you follow any other diet strategies for Diwali?
Cover image credits: Canva
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