Observing a fast this Navratri? Avoid these mistakes
Navratri is just around the corner. It's the time when most people observe a fast to seek the blessings of the deity and cleanse the body. Regardless of how many days one indulges in fasting, there are some mistakes that they may end up making, which could backfire in various ways. Make the most of this auspicious time by steering clear of these mistakes.
Going too extreme
Observing a fast doesn't mean you have to starve yourself and skip your daily meals. Irrespective of anything, your body still needs approximately 1,200 calories a day to function well. Hence, when fasting, make sure you are eating at set intervals so that you stay nourished and don't invite any health issues like nausea, gastritis, dizziness, fatigue, or low blood pressure.
Indulging in an intense workout
On days when you are fasting, it is not safe to engage in an intense workout as your body may end up burning more calories than it is consuming. This can result in weakness, or worse, fainting. The best way to keep up is to indulge in a moderate fitness activity like walking or doing some light stretches at home.
Breaking the fast with unhealthy food items
Imagine fasting the whole day and then savoring unhealthy foods. Yes, it is going to reverse all the benefits of fasting in no time. Breaking a fast with oil-loaded foods like fritters, fried potatoes, and puris, and items high in sugar (mithai) or salt content can cause fluctuations in your blood sugar levels and cause disturbance in your gut.
Dehydration
Not keeping track of your water intake when fasting is another common mistake that many don't realize. Experts believe that proper hydration prevents one from mistaking hunger for thirst and keeps various metabolic functions active in the body. Besides drinking water, you can also consume coconut water, water-diluted fresh homemade juices, and fruits with high water content to stay hydrated during the fast.
Overconsumption of caffeinated beverages
Tea and coffee are go-to beverages for several people, even when they are fasting. However, did you know that consuming these beverages on an empty stomach or when you are feeling hungry (which are pretty common during fasting) can lead to health conditions like acidity, heartburn, dehydration, bloating, and tummy aches? This is because caffeine interferes with the digestive juices, hindering their performance.
