Diwali brings together family, friends, and of course, delicious food! While we celebrate, it’s easy to indulge in traditional treats—fried snacks and sugary delights fill tables at nearly every gathering. However, moderation and mindful choices can help us stay healthy while enjoying the season’s flavors.
Here are a few essential do's and don'ts to keep your festive eating balanced and healthy:
Do's:
Stay Hydrated: Start your day with a glass of warm water to cleanse the digestive system. Drinking water throughout the day will help curb unnecessary cravings and aid digestion.
Eat a Nutritious Breakfast: Begin with a fiber-rich breakfast, including options like oats, fruits, or yogurt with nuts. A hearty breakfast keeps you full and reduces your urge to binge on sweets later.
Include a Side of Fresh Vegetables: Adding a small salad or fresh veggies to your Diwali meals provides fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you fuller longer.
Opt for Baked or Air-Fried Snacks: If you're preparing or serving snacks, consider healthier alternatives. Many traditional snacks, like samosas or kachoris, can be made in an air fryer or baked instead of deep-fried, offering the same flavors with less oil.
Limit Serving Sizes of Sweets: Enjoy the taste but in small portions. Opt for smaller servings of sweets and savor each bite. You’ll satisfy your cravings without overloading on sugar.
Include Protein-Rich Foods: Foods like nuts, chickpeas, and paneer help manage blood sugar levels, keeping you energized without the sugar crash.
Don'ts:
Don’t Skip Meals: Skipping meals to “save space” for Diwali treats can lead to overeating later. Instead, eat smaller, balanced meals throughout the day to keep hunger in check.
Avoid Sugary Drinks: Festive beverages like sodas, cocktails, and sugary teas add unnecessary sugar. Opt for fresh coconut water or herbal teas to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Don’t Go Overboard on Fried Foods: Although tempting, high amounts of fried food can strain your digestive system and increase unhealthy cholesterol. Limit yourself to small portions and try to pair fried snacks with fresh salads or fruits.
Avoid Eating Too Close to Bedtime: Heavy, fried, and sweet foods before bedtime can disrupt sleep and hinder digestion. Try to finish heavy meals at least 2-3 hours before sleeping.
Don’t Forget to Stay Active: Diwali festivities might mean less physical activity, but even light exercise can aid digestion and reduce the impact of indulgent eating. Consider a brisk walk after meals to balance things out.
The Impact of Overindulgence: Why Moderation Matters
While treats are part of the Diwali fun, eating too much sugar and fried food can have lasting effects:
Blood Sugar Spikes: High sugar intake causes blood sugar to rise quickly, leading to a sharp drop soon after, which can make you feel tired and crave more sweets.
Unhealthy Fats: Fried foods are often high in trans fats, which raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase heart disease risk.
Digestive Discomfort: Overeating can strain your digestive system, leading to bloating, discomfort, and even acid reflux.
Weight Gain: Excessive calories from sweets and fried foods can lead to weight gain, affecting overall health and wellness.
Mindful Indulgence: Enjoying Diwali the Healthy Way
As you celebrate, remember that it’s all about balance. By making mindful choices, you can enjoy your favorite Diwali treats without compromising your health. Here’s to a joyful and healthy Diwali from all of us at Revival Health!
-Mrs Sangeeta Patki, Dietitian (Registered)
Need guidance for a healthier Diwali and beyond? Call me for personalized diet planning and advice!
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