What Can We Eat in Monday Fast: Fasting on Mondays, known as Somvar Vrat, holds great significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. This fast is observed to seek blessings for good health, prosperity, and the fulfillment of desires. Fasting is also seen as a way to show devotion and self-discipline. Many people observe this fast with great dedication, but understanding what can and cannot be consumed during this fast is essential. Let’s dive into the details of what you can eat and the guidelines you should follow during Monday fast.
Fasting Guidelines for Monday Fast
When observing a Monday fast, there are typically two types of fasting: Nirjala and Phalahar.
- Nirjala Fast: This is the most rigorous type of fast, where the devotee abstains from both food and water for the entire day.
- Phalahar Fast: In this type, devotees consume only fruits, milk, and certain permissible food items, refraining from grains and pulses.
Allowed Foods in Monday Fast
Even though there are restrictions, there are still a variety of foods that can be enjoyed while maintaining the sanctity of the fast.
1. Fruits (Phal)
Fruits are a staple in any fast, and they provide the necessary energy to sustain the day.
- Commonly eaten fruits: Bananas, apples, papayas, pomegranates, and oranges.
- How to eat: They can be consumed fresh, in fruit salads, or even blended into smoothies with milk.
Fruits help you stay hydrated and are a great source of natural sugar, which keeps your energy levels up during fasting.
2. Nuts and Dry Fruits
Nuts and dry fruits are rich in essential nutrients and are highly recommended during fasting.
- What to include: Almonds, cashews, pistachios, raisins, and walnuts.
- Why they are good: They provide protein, healthy fats, and minerals that keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
You can consume these as snacks or add them to dishes like fruit salads or kheer.
3. Milk and Dairy Products
Dairy is widely consumed during Monday fast and is considered pure and permissible.
- Milk: You can drink plain milk or add fruits like bananas to make a milkshake.
- Yogurt (Dahi): Plain yogurt or yogurt-based dishes like raita are common during the fast.
- Paneer: Paneer can be used in light curries or salads, providing protein and energy.
- Buttermilk (Chaach): This is a refreshing and hydrating drink, especially during hot weather.
Dairy helps balance the fast by providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein.
4. Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)
Sabudana, also known as sago or tapioca pearls, is one of the most popular fasting foods in India.
- Sabudana Khichdi: A light dish made with soaked sabudana, peanuts, and potatoes.
- Sabudana Vada: Crispy fritters made with sabudana, mashed potatoes, and sendha namak.
Sabudana is rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent energy booster.
5. Singhara and Kuttu Flour
Both singhara atta (water chestnut flour) and kuttu atta (buckwheat flour) are permissible during the fast and are used to prepare various dishes.
- Roti or Puri: Made from singhara or kuttu flour, they are an alternative to regular wheat-based bread.
- Pancakes: You can make pancakes using these flours and top them with honey or fruits for extra flavor.
These gluten-free flours provide a healthy alternative to grains and are light on the stomach.
6. Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes
Potatoes and sweet potatoes are allowed during Monday fasts and are quite versatile.
- Aloo Chaat: A simple and tasty dish made with boiled potatoes, seasoned with sendha namak and lemon juice.
- Shakarkandi (Sweet Potato): It can be roasted or boiled and eaten with chaat masala for a nutritious snack.
These root vegetables are easy to digest and provide a good amount of carbs and fiber.
7. Rock Salt (Sendha Namak)
During fasting, regular table salt is avoided, and only sendha namak (rock salt) is used in cooking.
- Sendha namak is pure and unprocessed, making it a suitable substitute for regular salt in fasting dishes.
- It is commonly used in sabudana khichdi, aloo chaat, and other fasting-friendly recipes.
8. Coconut
Coconut is considered auspicious and is widely consumed during fasts.
- Coconut Water: A refreshing drink that keeps you hydrated.
- Grated Coconut: It can be added to fasting dishes like sabudana khichdi or eaten with fruits.
Coconut provides healthy fats and minerals, which help keep your body nourished during the fast.
Read This: What Can I Eat During Fast? For knowing what you can eat during in different fast.
Beverages During Monday Fast
While food restrictions are strict, there are still some beverages you can enjoy to stay hydrated and energized.
- Water: For those observing Phalahar fast, drinking water is essential. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Herbal Teas: You can drink herbal teas like tulsi tea or ginger tea for their soothing properties.
- Coconut Water: It’s light, refreshing, and packed with electrolytes.
- Fresh Fruit Juices: Freshly squeezed juices from fruits like oranges or pomegranates can keep you full of energy.
Foods to Avoid in Monday Fast
Certain foods are strictly prohibited during the Monday fast. Here’s what you need to avoid:
- Grains and Cereals: Wheat, rice, oats, and other grains are not allowed.
- Lentils, Legumes, and Pulses: All types of dals and pulses are avoided.
- Regular Salt: Only sendha namak is used, as regular salt is not permitted.
- Processed and Packaged Foods: Avoid any ready-made, processed, or packed food items.
These restrictions help maintain the purity and sanctity of the fast.
Tips for a Healthy Monday Fast
- Stay Hydrated: If you’re not observing Nirjala fast, make sure to drink enough water and fluids throughout the day.
- Avoid Oily and Fried Foods: Stick to light meals to avoid feeling lethargic or bloated.
- Eat at Regular Intervals: Even if you’re fasting, ensure that you consume small meals or snacks to keep your energy levels stable.
Conclusion
Observing a Monday fast not only strengthens your spiritual connection but also brings physical benefits, such as detoxifying the body. By eating the right foods, you can maintain your energy levels while adhering to the traditional guidelines of the fast. Make sure to plan your meals wisely and stay hydrated to enjoy the spiritual and health benefits of the Monday fast.
Read more: Can We Eat Kaju Katli During Fasts?
