Many Hindu women around India are observing their Karwa Chauth fast today. Also known as Karak Chaturthi, Karwa Chauth is the fourth day of moon's waning phase in the month of Kartik. The ancient Hindu festival is also seen as a bonding time among women, who on this special day get along, dress up, apply henna on their hands, perform pujas and ultimately break their fast upon seeing the moon. The fast is observed for the long lives and health of their spouses. The day-long fast is quite strenuous for some, which is why pregnant women, sick and elderly women are advised not to observe the fast.
After the day long fast, you may feel like having anything and everything that comes your way- but that may not be the best strategy according to some experts. Your body may not react very well with the abrupt change. We spoke to Ms. Jyoti (Senior Dietician at the Jaslok Hospital), who told us certain healthy ways in which you can break your fast, and foods that you should have post the vrat.
Here's What To Eat Post Karwa Chauth Vrat:
1. Drink Water
It cannot be emphasised enough, how much your body need water, especially at this point of time to avoid dehydration. So, keep a bottle ready, if plain taste of water bores you, you can try detox water, juices et al.
2. Dry Fruits And Nuts
Nuts and dry fruits are excellent sources of energy. They are also very satiating and fill you up with a range of minerals and antioxidants. Think: almonds, walnuts, cashews, prunes, raisins.
(Also Read: When Is Karwa Chauth 2022: Fasting Date, Rituals And How To Prepare Sargi)
Karwa Chauth 2022: Almonds and nuts could be eaten post-vrat. Photo Credit: iStock
3. Have A Balanced Meal
This is not the time rule out essential micro and micro nutrients. Make sure your meal post the vrat is balanced in terms of carbohydrates, proteins, for energy restoration.
4. Avoid Fried Foods
Try to cut back on deep fried foods, they can be difficult to digest and acidic.
Karwa Chauth 2022: Fried foods could be hard to digest
5. Load Up On Proteins
It is recommended you have considerable amount of protein post fasting instead of having foods comprising simple carbs or sugar. Proteins can help you sustain energy levels as they do not get metabolised too soon like simple carbohydrates.
6. Lime Juice Or Coconut Water
Having a glass of lime juice or coconut post fasting helps replenishing electrolytes in your body. It is excellent for immunity too.
Coconut water makes for an effective rehydration solution. Photo Credit: iStock
7. Fruits
Breaking your fast by eating fruits helps restore energy levels in a jiffy. They are replete with natural sugars; hence, no one is complaining. Moreover, they are also high in vitamins and fibre that provides satiety. Some seasonal fruits we are in awe of are water chestnut, guava, apples and strawberries.