Karwa Chauth , a significant festival for married Hindu women , involves a day-long fast but for pregnant women, fasting can pose unique challenges due to increased nutritional demands and the delicate balance of hormones during pregnancy. Pregnancy gives a new identity to a woman but it also comes with some dos and don’ts rules especially during festive fasting as a woman's body goes through several alterations in chemistry and functions hence, health experts insist that one should not fast. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Varini N, Senior Consultant - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Milann Fertility Center in Bengaluru, shared, “During this phase, both the woman and the baby need a balanced diet and proper hydration.
Woman with diabetes or gestational diabetes there is a need to keep the sugar level intact. Therefore, keep a few things in mind when a woman is pregnant and it’s a fasting day.” She advised - The first three trimesters are important for nutrition, and every pregnancy differs, so your nutritional habits, fetus health, and blood sugar levels will decide whether you can fast.
Therefore, first and foremost, consult your physician, since they know your body function well. Avoid dehydration, as it can lead to health complications like nausea, vomiting, and gastric problems. Also, avoid diuretic drinks like coffee or tea, as they reduce the body’s water content.
Take sufficient rest instead of exhausting yourself which can lead to fatigue and stress.
