Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival that occurs in the autumn months, either in September or October, and celebrates the divine feminine energy, often referred to as the Goddess Durga or Shakti. The festival starts today (October 15) and will end on October 24. Navratri is observed in different ways across various regions of India. Many people fast during Navratri, refraining from consuming certain foods or abstaining from a full meal. Some fast for the entire nine days, while others may fast on specific days. However, in this article, we try to answer whether it is safe for pregnant women to fast during Navratri and if they do so, what diet tips can help ease their experience. Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, provides useful insights.
Also Read: Navratri Fasting Foods: Expert Lists Foods To Eat And Avoid
Should Pregnant Women Fast During Navratri?
“With the festival season taking one and all in its fervour, we all want to be a part of it in one way or the other. Navratri is one of the special festivals in which Hindus observe fasting for a period of nine days,”Dr Bajaj said. But according to the doctor, if you are expecting and wish to consider fasting for those nine days, it may not be the best choice.
She explained, “It might not be a good idea as fasting during any trimester of pregnancy can have harmful effects on the unborn child. Your baby depends solely on you for nutrition and going without food for long hours when fasting during pregnancy might bring harm to you and your child.”
But if you have an otherwise healthy pregnancy without any complications and wish to fast, then it is important to consult your doctor before you do so, the doctor advised.
Navratri Diet Tips To Follow During Pregnancy
If you’re considering fasting, here are some dietary guidelines to follow:
Keep yourself hydrated
Regardless of whether you’re fasting or not, staying hydrated is of utmost importance. Dr Bajaj said, “Keep yourself hydrated at all times by drinking enough water and other natural fluids like butter milk, coconut or lemon water. But do not take in the liquids in a jiffy, rather it is advisable to take it slowly sip by sip. Once you ensure adequate hydration, it is time to focus on your diet.”
Eat small meals
According to the doctor, it is crucial to eat small meals at frequent intervals instead of a big meal after a long interval. “Try to maintain a gap of 2-3 hours between meals to avoid any issues of acidity or indigestion,” she added.
Include fibre-rich foods
Fibre is great for your digestive health. During Navratri fasting, specifically during your eating window, try to include fibre-rich foods like seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as cucumber, carrot, and tomato. In addition, Dr Bajaj recommended focusing on wholegrains that help keep you energised throughout the day.
Choose healthy grains
During Navratri fasting, wheat, rice, and other common grains are usually restricted, however, Dr Bajaj recommended replacing rice with barnyard millet. “You can also relish the taste of sabudana in the form of kheer or khichdi,” she added.
Also Read: Guide to Navratri 2023: Foods To Eat And Avoid During Fasting For Goddess Durga
Include dairy products
“Do not forget to take at least 2-3 servings of dairy products such as milk, paneer curd daily,” the doctor said. These are a great source of calcium and protein, which are essential for overall health, especially in pregnant women.
What To Avoid
While you enjoy the benefits of healthy fasting during pregnancy, it is important to stay away from binge eating on fried and preserved foods, such as aloo puris, potato chips, sabudana fries, and the likes, said Dr Bajaj, recommending the incorporation of healthy snacks, like dry fruits including almonds, walnuts and raisins and roasted makhana (lotus seeds) to add flavour to your fasting.
Most importantly, take it easy and do not push too hard, Dr Bajaj shared.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dietician if you are following a diet or dealing with any health conditions.]
