Can We Eat Salt in Monday Fast: Monday fasting, or Somvar Vrat, is a common practice among many Hindus who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It’s believed that keeping this fast brings peace, and prosperity, and helps fulfill one’s wishes. However, when it comes to fasting, there’s often some confusion about what you can and can’t eat—especially when it comes to salt. So, can you eat salt on Monday’s fasts? Let’s break it down.
Significance of Monday Fast
Monday is of special importance to those who worship Lord Shiva. Many people fast on this day as a way to show devotion and ask for his blessings. Some choose to go without food or water entirely, while others may eat only specific foods. The type of fast you observe usually depends on personal beliefs, family traditions, or what you feel comfortable with.
Also Read: Can We Eat Rock Salt During Fast?
Traditional Dietary Guidelines for Monday Fast
When fasting, you need to follow certain food guidelines. Usually, people eat fruits, milk, and foods made from special grains like rajgira (amaranth) or kuttu (buckwheat). On the other hand, foods like wheat, rice, pulses, and anything processed are generally avoided. The idea is to keep your diet simple and pure during the fast.
Role of Salt in Fasting
Salt is something most of us use daily, but when fasting, the kind of salt you use matters. Regular table salt is typically off the table during fasts. Instead, people use sendha namak, also known as rock salt. This is because sendha namak is natural and unprocessed, unlike regular salt, which has additives and undergoes processing, making it less suitable for fasting.
Can Salt Be Consumed During Monday Fast?
Yes, you can eat salt during Monday fasts, but it should be sendha namak. Sendha namak is allowed because it’s pure and natural. It doesn’t have the chemicals or additives found in regular table salt, making it more appropriate for a spiritual practice like fasting. So, if you’re making vrat-friendly dishes, just make sure you’re using sendha namak instead of your regular salt.
Health Benefits of Sendha Namak During Fast
Sendha namak isn’t just allowed during fasting; it’s actually good for you. It’s rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which help keep your body’s electrolyte levels in balance. When you fast, your body might feel a little off due to the changes in your diet, but sendha namak can help you stay energized and support digestion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re observing a Monday fast, you can definitely use salt—just make sure it’s sendha namak. This type of salt is pure, natural, and fits perfectly with the spiritual and health goals of fasting. Avoid regular table salt because it doesn’t have the same purity. By sticking to these simple guidelines, you’ll keep your fast both meaningful and beneficial to your health.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular table salt in Monday fast?
It’s better to avoid regular table salt during Monday fasts. Instead, use sendha namak, which is pure and more in line with fasting traditions.
2. Why is sendha namak preferred during fasting?
Sendha namak is natural and unprocessed, making it a better choice for fasting than regular table salt, which has additives.
3. What are the benefits of using rock salt in a fast?
Rock salt, or sendha namak, helps maintain electrolyte balance, aids digestion, and provides essential minerals, making it a healthy choice during fasting.
4. Can we eat iodized salt in fast?
Yes, you can eat iodized salt during fasting. Iodized salt is just regular salt that has been fortified with iodine, an essential mineral for the body. It does not break the fast, and many people use it while cooking or seasoning food during fasting periods.
Read more: What Can We Eat In Janmashtami Fast: A Simple Guide
