The Guide to Controlling Carbohydrates and Losing Weight During Navratri

The Guide to Controlling Carbohydrates and Losing Weight During Navratri

Winters end and many of us realize that we’ve gained some extra pounds. Then comes Navratri, and we decide to make a change. Most Hindus prepare to fast for the nine days of Navratri, not just for religious reasons but also to shed a few kilos. The irony is that after the festival, many of us discover that instead of losing weight, we’ve gained a few extra kilos. Oh, the frustration! Weight gain feels like a never-ending cycle. We worry about our weight, but have we ever considered how many carbs we’ve consumed daily during these nine days, all in the name of special Navratri Vrat foods?

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Lose Weight During Navratri

Eliminate Carbs with Simple Strategies

Let’s explore what we typically eat during Navratri fasting and get ready to understand how we might be consuming excess carbs.

Potato

During Navratri, the humble potato reigns supreme in the market. It is a commonly used food during fasting. Did you know a medium-sized potato contains about 100 kcal? And how many potatoes do we consume in a day? Think about dishes like Aaloo Bhartha, Aaloo kachori, Aaloo halwa, Aaloo Sago, Aaloo Tamatar Sabzi, and the spicy Aaloo Ka Raita. The list goes on and on. We even fry potatoes for snacks in between fasting, labeling it as “Falaahar”. Why put yourself through this?

Tip

Opt for sautéed vegetables and cucumber raita instead of potatoes in every dish. Consider using Pumpkin or Lauki, which are low-carb vegetables.

Sago/Sabudana

This Navratri staple is pure carbohydrates. A 50 gm serving amounts to 175 kcal. Although many eagerly wait for Navratri to enjoy Sabudana khichdi and sago vada, it’s important to note that sago is a high glycemic index food that should be avoided.

Tip

If you must have sago, consider incorporating soaked sago in diluted milk to make Kheer with stevia or adding semi-cooked Saabudana to diluted curd to create Sago Raita.

Rajgiri / Amaranth / Chaulai / Ramdana

High in Carbohydrates yet a good source of protein, Amaranth is a nutritious cereal option during Navratri. It is rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Avoid adding sugar and Gur to make Chaulai laddoo.

Tip

Prepare Amaranth kheer or incorporate vegetables to create a dish similar to Dalia or Upma.

Sweet potato

Sweet potatoes are high in carbs but have a low glycemic index. They are rich in fiber and vitamin A. A large sweet potato provides 162 kcal. Avoid making Shakarkandi halwa to manage carbs and calories.

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Tip

Add a few sweet potato cubes to your salads or fruit chaat to increase your energy levels during Navratri.

Kuttu (Buckwheat) flour

Kuttu ka atta, a fasting favorite, consists of 75% carbs and 25% high-quality protein. It is also a good source of fiber, magnesium, iron, vitamin B, and calcium. However, it is only beneficial when consumed in a low-fat manner.

Tip

Instead of indulging in fried Kuttu puris, Kachories, or Pakoras, try making Kuttu Cheela or Chapatti with added spinach.

Samak (Vrat ka Chawal)

100g of Samak or swank rice provides 170 calories with a substantial amount of carbohydrates. It is advisable to consume in moderation.

Tip

Use Samak rice in dishes like vegetable Upma, Dalia, Idli, Dosa, or Pulao with added vegetables to maintain low carb content and high fiber. Prepare kheer without sugar and sweeten with stevia or a few almonds, dates, and raisins for natural sweetness. You can also combine Samak with Kuttu flour to make roti.

These are some carb-heavy foods commonly consumed during Navratri fasting. Remember, never mix carbs with fats and use your judgment before eating. Excessive carb intake can have negative effects on your health.

Stay healthy and live well.

Do you believe you can manage carbs and effectively lose weight during Navratri?

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