Can We Eat Beetroot in Navratri Fast?

Fasting has always been an important part of Indian tradition. Especially during Navratri, devotees follow a sattvic diet that keeps the body light, balanced, and spiritually focused. The vrat thali usually includes fruits, milk, nuts, and certain permitted vegetables. But when it comes to root vegetables like carrot, radish, and beetroot, people often wonder: “Can we eat beetroot in Navratri fast?”

The answer is not a simple yes or no — it depends on traditions, family customs, and the type of fast you’re observing. Let’s understand this in detail.

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Nutritional Value of Beetroot

Beetroot is known for its rich nutritional content. It is packed with iron, potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which help in improving blood circulation and boosting stamina. It’s also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthy and light food option.

However, during fasting, the choice of food is not just about health but also about adhering to certain customs and traditions.

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Is Beetroot Allowed in Navratri Fast?

Navratri fasting guidelines can differ depending on regional customs and family traditions. In general, certain root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and arbi are commonly consumed during Navratri fast. But what about beetroot?

Traditional Guidelines

In many regions, root vegetables are allowed, but beetroot is often avoided by stricter fasting rules. This is because beetroot is considered a non-sattvic vegetable by some sects, as it grows underground and is thought to have a grounding effect on the body, which may not align with the light and cleansing nature of the fast.

Regional Variations

Customs regarding fasting foods can vary widely across different parts of India. In some regions, beetroot is accepted as a permissible food during the fast, especially when cooked in a way that aligns with fasting rules (without garlic, onion, or other tamasic ingredients). In other areas, beetroot is avoided along with other root vegetables like carrots and radishes.

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Reasons Why Some Avoid Beetroot During Fast

The main reason some people avoid beetroot during Navratri is its classification as a root vegetable. While certain root vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes are allowed because they provide energy during fasting, beetroot is less common due to its earthy nature and potential grounding effects.

For those who follow stricter fasting traditions, any root vegetable besides the commonly allowed ones is avoided to maintain the sattvic diet.

Also Read: What Can We Eat in Monday Fast? (Somvar Vrat)

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How to Include Beetroot in Navratri Recipes (If Allowed)

If your fasting customs allow for beetroot consumption, there are several healthy and delicious ways to include it in your diet:

• Beetroot Salad: A simple salad made with grated beetroot, fresh fruits like apples, and a light sprinkle of rock salt (sendha namak) can be refreshing during fasts.
• Beetroot Juice: A glass of freshly squeezed beetroot juice can provide a boost of energy and improve stamina during fasting.
• Beetroot Raita: If you’re consuming dairy, a beetroot raita made with curd and grated beetroot is a tasty and nutritious dish for Navratri.

Just remember to prepare these recipes without using ingredients that are restricted during the fast, such as regular salt, garlic, or onions.

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Conclusion

Whether beetroot can be eaten during the Navratri fast largely depends on the customs and traditions you follow. While it is a highly nutritious vegetable, it is often avoided by those observing stricter fasting rules. However, in some regions or less strict fasting routines, beetroot may be allowed, especially when prepared in a sattvic manner.

As always, it is important to check with your family traditions or consult with elders before deciding to include beetroot in your Navratri fasting meals.

Also check out: Can We Eat Kaju Katli During Fasts?

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