Eat healthy, stay energetic, and lose weight during Navratri

Chaitra Navratri is an important festival for the Hindus, that falls in the month of Chaitra, usually between March and April. A nine-day festival, it is a celebration of the victory of good over evil; Goddess Durga and her nine forms are celebrated during these nine days with great zeal and enthusiasm across India and various other parts of the world.

During Chaitra Navratri, people observe fasts, offer prayers, and perform various sacred rituals to please the Goddess Durga. Homes and temples are decorated with flowers, diyas, rangolis, and lights and people recite Ramayana, perform yagnas, and organize kirtans. People prepare and consume special vegetarian dishes and abstain from consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian food, onion, garlic, and grains. Samak Chawal, Sabudana Khichdi, Kuttu ki Puri, Singhare ka Halwa, etc., are consumed during Navratri fasts. People also engage in garba, dandiya raas, and cultural programs & organize community feasts, commonly known as Bhandara.

On the ninth day of the festival, also known as Ram Navami, people across the country celebrate the birth of Lord Rama, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.

Chaitra Navratri also marks the beginning of the New Year, according to the Hindu Lunar Calendar. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and devotion and is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and good health to people’s lives.

Here are a few tips to eat healthy, stay energetic, and lose weight during Navratri:

* Eat high-protein food items: To maintain energy levels, make sure to eat paneer, yogurt, dairy products, nuts, and seeds

* Add more fiber to your diet: Fruits, vegetables, and other fiber-rich foods keep you full and satisfied for longer. They also prevent cravings and help regulate blood sugar levels

* Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, buttermilk, herbal teas, smoothies, and other fluids to stay hydrated and energized. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine as they are diuretics and can contribute to dehydration

* Avoid processed and deep-fried foods: Instead of deep frying, use baking, grilling, steaming, and other healthy cooking methods to reduce calorie intake and keep energy levels high

* Meal preparation: To avoid consuming unhealthy foods, or takeaways, plan your meals ahead of time and stay on track and maintain a healthy weight. Eat small, and frequent meals comprising healthy foods and fluids to keep your metabolism going throughout the day

Eat healthy! Live healthy!

Happy Navratri Everyone!