As the vibrant festival of Chaitra Navratri arrives, it marks not only a period of spiritual devotion but also a crucial seasonal transition into the intense Indian summer. Observing a fast during this time can be challenging, often leading to fatigue or overconsumption of fried ‘vrat’ foods. However, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, renowned for guiding Kareena Kapoor's fitness journey, has shared a simple, time-tested meal plan that ensures devotees can honour their fast while providing their body with the essential nourishment it needs for the seasonal change.

Beyond Detox: Embracing Diversity and Digestion

Diwekar has consistently championed traditional wisdom over fad diets, and her Navratri plan is no exception. She emphasizes that fasting should not be seen as a punishing "detox," but rather an opportunity for diversity, improved digestion, and de-stressing. Her meal plan is designed to be light on the stomach, nutrient-dense, and aligned with the traditional foods that have been used for centuries to gently prepare the body for the rising summer heat.

The core of her philosophy for the nine days involves incorporating specific, power-packed ingredients that boost energy and stabilize mood.

Power Foods for the Fasting Days

Rujuta Diwekar highlights four specific, traditional foods that are non-negotiable for anyone observing the Navratri fast:

1. Rajgira (Amaranth): This powerhouse millet can be consumed in the form of rotis, thalipeeth, or laddoos. Rich in Iron, it is crucial for maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels, which directly contributes to sustained physical and mental strength, and even hair health.

2. Cashews: Often avoided due to misconceptions, cashews are a fantastic source of Magnesium. A small handful acts as a natural relaxant, helping to calm the nervous system, which is particularly beneficial for reducing gas, easing muscle soreness in the legs, and promoting better sleep.

3. Bananas: This humble fruit is a mood-regulator, packed with Vitamin B6. Diwekar notes that B6 helps stabilize mood swings and even provides relief for women experiencing pre-menstrual tenderness. Being rich in prebiotics, bananas also gently support digestion.

4. Sundal (Legumes): Following a South Indian tradition, Diwekar encourages the inclusion of sundal—a dish made from soaked and cooked legumes like chana or rajma. This provides a vital boost of protein and amino acids, which are essential for maintaining bone strength and overall physical health during the fasting period.

A Day of Wholesome, Balanced Eating

While encouraging the consumption of these four pillars, Diwekar also suggests a simple, wholesome daily rhythm to keep energy levels stable:

• Upon Waking: Start the day with a gentle energy boost from soaked black raisins with a couple of strands of kesar (saffron) and a few soaked almonds.

• Breakfast: Opt for filling, millet-based dishes like Rajgira thalipeeth or roti served with fresh dahi (curd).

• Lunch: A light and nutritious combination of Samo chawal (Barnyard Millet) with a simple peanut curry offers complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.

• Evening Snack: A cooling chaas (buttermilk) infused with ginger, paired with boiled and lightly roasted sweet potato, provides hydration and complex carbohydrates for sustained evening energy.

• Dinner: End the day lightly with a ripe banana and a glass of masala milk (milk boiled with dry fruit powder and spices) to aid sleep and digestion.

By following this approach, the Chaitra Navratri fast transforms from a challenge into a conscious choice for better health, ensuring that the devotion of the nine days is perfectly complemented by the wisdom of balanced, seasonal Indian nutrition.
Read Also: How to Choose, Store, and Preserve Avocados for Maximum Freshness
Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!
HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!