What Can I Eat During Fast: Fasting is an important tradition in many Indian households. Whether it’s for religious reasons or simply a way to detox, fasting is a practice that has been followed for generations. But when we fast, it’s important to know what foods we can eat to stay healthy and energized, as well as what foods are not allowed.
Contents
Which Foods Allowed During Fasts
- Fruits and Dry Fruits
Fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges are great to eat during fasts. They are light on the stomach and provide instant energy. Dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins are also allowed and are packed with nutrients. - Dairy Products
Dairy items like milk, yogurt, and paneer are commonly eaten during fasts. They provide protein and calcium, which keep us strong and full throughout the day. - Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes
Potatoes and sweet potatoes are very filling and can be cooked in many ways. You can make simple potato dishes or even sweet potato chaat to enjoy during your fast. - Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)
Sabudana is a popular choice during fasts. You can make sabudana khichdi, vada, or even kheer. It’s light and easy to digest, making it perfect for fasting. - Kuttu (Buckwheat) and Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour
During fasts, you can use kuttu and singhara flour to make puris, pakoras, or even parathas. These flours are a great alternative to regular wheat flour.
Special Ingredients Used During Fast
- Sendha Namak (Rock Salt)
Instead of regular salt, sendha namak is used during fasts. It’s pure and considered more suitable for fasting. - Makhana (Fox Nuts)
Makhana is a healthy snack that can be roasted or used in kheer. It’s light, crunchy, and full of nutrients. - Amaranth (Rajgira)
Rajgira is another ingredient used during fasts. You can make rotis or laddus with it. It’s a good source of protein and keeps you full for a long time. - Coconut and Coconut Water
Coconut and coconut water are refreshing and hydrating. You can use grated coconut in dishes or drink coconut water to stay hydrated.
Beverages to Consume During Fast
- Water and Herbal Teas
Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated. You can also have herbal teas, which are soothing and caffeine-free. - Buttermilk (Chaas) and Lassi
Buttermilk and lassi are cooling and help in digestion. They are great to drink during fasts, especially in summer. - Fruit Juices and Coconut Water
Fresh fruit juices and coconut water are perfect for keeping your energy levels up during a fast. They are natural and packed with vitamins.
Foods to Avoid During Fasts
- Grains and Pulses
Grains like wheat, rice, and pulses are usually not allowed during fasts. Instead, we eat foods like sabudana, kuttu, and singhara. - Regular Salt
Regular salt is not allowed during most fasts. Instead, use sendha namak, which is considered pure and suitable for fasting. - Processed and Packaged Foods
It’s better to avoid processed and packaged foods during fasts. They often contain ingredients that are not allowed, like regular salt or grains. - Non-Vegetarian Food
Non-vegetarian food, including meat and eggs, is usually not allowed during fasts. - Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are often avoided during fasts as they are considered tamasic (promoting ignorance and lethargy) in nature.
Sample Fasting Meal Plan
- Breakfast Options
Start your day with a fruit salad or sabudana khichdi. You can also have makhana kheer for a sweet start. - Lunch and Dinner Ideas
For lunch and dinner, you can have kuttu ki puri with aloo sabzi or rajgira roti with curd. These dishes are filling and satisfying. - Snacks
For snacks, you can munch on roasted makhana, dry fruits, or a simple fruit. - Beverage Suggestions
Drink lassi, coconut water, or herbal tea to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Conclusion
Fasting is a time to cleanse the body and mind, but it’s important to eat the right foods and avoid certain items to keep your energy up. By planning your meals with these fasting-friendly foods and avoiding those that aren’t allowed, you can enjoy your fast without feeling tired or hungry. Stay healthy and enjoy your fasting days!
Also read: Can We Eat Salt in Monday Fast?
