It’s ‘that time of the year’ again when festivities are in full swing. Navratri is a significant and highly revered festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India. During these nine days, many people observe fasting as a way to detoxify the body and rejuvenate their spirits.
However, despite the intention to purify and maintain good health, most of us find ourselves gaining weight instead. But why does that happen? We got in touch with Ms Parmeet Kaur, Head and Chief Nutritionist and Dietician at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram who shares the most common mistakes people make during Navratri fasting that contribute to weight gain: 1. Overeating High-Calorie Foods Ms Parmeet shares that one of the most common mistakes during Navratri is indulging in high-calorie foods.
Traditional fasting foods like potatoes, sabudana (tapioca pearls), and fried items like pakoras and puris are often consumed in large quantities. These foods are rich in carbohydrates and fats, leading to an excess calorie intake. To avoid this, opt for healthier alternatives such as baked or roasted snacks, and ensure portion control.
2. Consuming Too Much Sugar Sweets and sugary drinks are a staple during Navratri fasting. Many people consume large amounts of sweets made from sugar, jaggery, and honey, along with sugary beverages like fruit juices and sherbets, she explains.
Excessive sugar intake not only adds empty calories but also spikes insulin levels, leading to fat storage. I.