Navratri Superfoods: Ingredients To Keep You Energised During Fasting

Fasting during Navratri is a way to detoxify both physically and spiritually. However, it’s important to ensure that your body remains energised and nourished during this period.

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Navratri, one of the most significant festivals in India, is celebrated with great zeal and fervor. It marks a time of fasting, prayer, and devotion to Goddess Durga, and for many, it also signifies an opportunity for self-purification and spiritual growth. During this nine-day festival, fasting is a key component, and many devotees abstain from regular food while opting for specific ingredients. But fasting doesn’t mean you have to feel weak or low in energy. Incorporating certain superfoods into your meals can help you maintain stamina, keep your energy levels up, and stay nourished during the spiritual practices. Here’s a look at some key ingredients that can boost your energy and ensure you feel vibrant throughout Navratri fasting.

1. Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)
Sabudana is one of the most commonly consumed foods during Navratri fasting. Rich in carbohydrates, it provides a quick source of energy and helps maintain stamina throughout the day. Sabudana is also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer periods. A sabudana khichdi or a sabudana kheer can be a tasty and nutritious option that keeps you fueled.

Benefits:

• High in carbs for quick energy.
• Good for digestion.
• Can be easily prepared and customized with spices.

2. Buckwheat (Kuttu) Flour
Buckwheat, or Kuttu, is a gluten-free grain that is an excellent alternative to wheat flour. It is a powerhouse of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and B-vitamins. Consuming foods made from buckwheat, like Kuttu ke Paratha or Kuttu ki Puri, can help you feel energized and satiated. It has a low glycemic index, which means it releases energy gradually, helping to keep you full throughout the day.

Benefits:

• High in protein and fiber.
• Helps maintain energy levels.
• Good for heart health and blood sugar regulation.

3. Sweet Potatoes (Shakarkandi)
Sweet potatoes are an excellent superfood for fasting during Navratri. Packed with complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin A, they provide long-lasting energy. Sweet potatoes are also rich in antioxidants, which can help boost your immunity during the festival. Roasted, boiled, or made into a curry, sweet potatoes can be a versatile addition to your fasting meals.

Benefits:

• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and providing sustained energy.
• High in antioxidants and vitamins.
• Helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

4. Makhana (Fox Nuts)
Makhana, or fox nuts, are commonly consumed during Navratri fasting due to their high nutritional value. Rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, makhana helps maintain energy levels and promotes satiety. They are also known to support kidney and heart health. Makhana can be roasted with ghee and seasoned with a pinch of salt and spices, or added to kheer for a delicious treat.

Benefits:

• High in protein and fiber.
• Aids in weight management.
• Boosts heart and kidney health.

5. Coconut
Coconut is another superfood that is widely used in various fasting preparations. Whether in the form of coconut water, coconut milk, or grated coconut, it is rich in healthy fats that provide long-lasting energy. Coconut water helps in replenishing lost electrolytes and staying hydrated, while the fat content offers a good source of sustained energy.

Benefits:

• High in healthy fats and electrolytes.
• Keeps you hydrated.
• Provides sustained energy throughout the day.

6. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them a great addition to your fasting meals. They help maintain energy levels, promote healthy digestion, and support weight management. You can add chia seeds to smoothies, fruit bowls, or even prepare a chia pudding that will give you a refreshing and energizing start to the day.

Benefits:

• Rich in omega-3s and protein.
• Supports healthy digestion.
• Helps maintain steady energy levels.

7. Almonds and Walnuts
Almonds and walnuts are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. These nuts are known to keep you feeling full and energized during fasting. Packed with vitamins and minerals, they help support brain function, improve metabolism, and boost overall health. A handful of almonds or walnuts in your daily diet during Navratri will provide you with a good energy boost.

Benefits:

• Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
• Boost brain function and metabolism.
• Provide sustained energy.

8. Lassi (Buttermilk)
Lassi, particularly during fasting, can be a refreshing and nutritious drink. Made from yogurt, lassi is packed with probiotics that aid digestion and promote gut health. It’s also rich in protein and calcium, providing a good energy boost and helping to keep you full. Buttermilk, a savory form of lassi, is also widely consumed during Navratri to aid digestion and hydration.

Benefits:

• Rich in probiotics for digestion.
• Helps keep you hydrated.
• Provides protein and calcium for energy.

9. Spinach (Palak) and Other Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach are packed with essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. These greens can be included in fasting meals like soups, salads, or smoothies. They help maintain energy levels, boost immunity, and improve overall well-being. They are also beneficial for those who need a natural source of iron to combat fatigue during fasting.

Benefits:

• Rich in iron and vitamins.
• Supports immune health.
• Boosts energy levels.

10. Fruits like Bananas, Apples, and Pomegranates
Fruits are an excellent source of natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals, providing an instant energy boost. Bananas, for example, are rich in potassium and magnesium, which help maintain electrolyte balance and muscle function. Apples and pomegranates are high in antioxidants and fiber, providing sustained energy. A fruit salad or smoothie can be a great way to recharge during Navratri.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Natural energy boost.
• Helps maintain electrolyte balance.

By incorporating these superfoods—sabudana, buckwheat, sweet potatoes, makhana, coconut, chia seeds, nuts, lassi, leafy greens, and fruits—you can keep your energy levels high, promote good health, and continue to perform your daily rituals without feeling drained. Whether you choose to make traditional dishes or experiment with new recipes, these ingredients can help you have a balanced, energizing, and spiritually fulfilling Navratri.

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)