Navratri fasting holds immense significance in the Hindu culture. Lasting for nine nights, the festival of Navratri is celebrated to worship the Goddess Durga in her various forms. During this time, devotees observe strict Navratri fasting rules, abstaining from grains, alcohol, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian foods. 

Since Navratri fasting can seem a bit challenging for first-timers, we have compiled a few easy yet effective fasting tips to help you through it. We have also included some simple recipes for food and snacks you can munch on during your Navratri fasting this time.

Benefits of Fasting

Fasting, without a doubt, is challenging. It involves fully or partially restricting food intake - in quantity and in frequency - and avoiding certain types of food. People fast primarily to lose weight in general or as part of their religious practices like Navratri fasting. Fasting overall is good for heath and can be an excellent way to get in good physical and mental shape.

Here are some benefits of fasting that will motivate you to fast this Navratri season:

1. Prevention and management of diabetes, hypertension and thyroid disorders
2. Controlled fasting can aid in weight loss by regulating calorie intake
3. Fasting allows the body to cleanse and eliminate toxins, promoting overall well-being
4. Fasting instils discipline, helping individuals control cravings and develop willpower
5. Navratri fasting and fasting during other religious occasions strengthen cultural and spiritual bonds
6. Regular fasting slows down ageing that aids in enhancing the longevity of life

5 Easy Tips For Effective Fasting During Navratri

Although fasting is a different experience for every person, there are some general rules and tips that can help most people make the best of it. It is always good to tailor your fasting regimen to your specific needs and adhere to these basic guidelines.

1. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is critical to achieving your purpose of dieting or to even get through the day of the fast. It helps manage body functions effectively, flushes out unwanted toxins from the body and helps your body adjust to the revised food intake pattern.

2. Avoid Processed Foods

Here’s another effective way to get through Navratri fasting with ease - steer clear of any packaged and processed foods. Why? That’s because processed foods generally consist of very less nutrients and will not nourish your body. 

3. Plan your Fasting Period

If you are fasting for religious purposes like Navratri fasting, you already know how to do it based on existing practices or past experience. However, if you want to start fasting purely for health reasons, be sure to plan it right. If possible, get your plan authenticated by a nutritionist before starting. After all, your body is not used to fasting yet and it is best to start with a smaller period of time.

4. Eat Small Portions on Fasting Days 

Reduce the quantity of every meal while increasing the frequency of daily intakes. Doing so will help you manage common risks related to fasting such as indigestion, weakness and confusion. Also, pay attention to hunger cues and adjust your Navratri fasting routine accordingly.

5. Avoid Breaking Fast with Heavy Foods

This is particularly important when you are fasting for a more extended period. Break your fast with light, soothing food, and then follow it with a regular diet. Ensure you include a good amount of protein and fibre during fasting meals. This will ensure the right energy levels in your body and help maintain your muscle mass during the diet. Remember, it is crucial to be mindful of your body and its needs when fasting.

Navratri Vrat Food Recipes

Here are a few healthy Navratri fasting dishes that you must include in your diet this Navratri. We have included the recipes for these dishes to help you recreate them and make the most of the Navratri season.

1. Makhana Dalia / Porridge 

Makhana Dalia or Makhana Porridge, is a nutritious and delicious porridge made from roasted foxnuts and broken wheat (dalia). It is a wholesome breakfast dish that can be enjoyed during Navratri fasting and even later on. Scroll down to learn the recipe for this delectable dish.

Recipe for Makhana Dalia:

Step 1: Add two tablespoons of organic Makhana Dalia Porridge Mix powder for every 100 ml of water and mix till you get a lump-free batter.

Step 2: If needed, add finely chopped vegetables such as carrots and spring onions and coriander leaves.

Step 3: Cook the mixture for 10 minutes on a medium flame or till the porridge thickens. Serve it lukewarm.

2. Gluten-Free Sabudana Chilla

Sabudana can easily be called the most useful food during Navratri fasting. Made from tapioca root commonly found in Kerala, it is easy to digest, has zero fat, is full of fibre, and is a rich source of calcium. Additionally, it is an excellent natural food to manage blood sugar and cholesterol. 

Recipe for Sabudana Chilla:

Step 1: Mix gluten-free Tapioca Atta and water to form a thick batter.

Step 2: Add one-fourth cup of kuttu atta (buckwheat flour) to the batter along with some curry leaves, ½ tsp pepper powder and ¾ tsp of salt.

Step 3: Mix well and leave it for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot frying pan and spread evenly.

Step 5: Pour one tsp of oil around the chilla and roast on low flame.

Step 6: Flip the chilla, and remove once both sides turn light brown.

Step 7: Serve with freshly ground coriander chutney.

Amala Earth Recommends: Tapioca Flour

3. Kuttu Dosa

Kuttu Dosa, also known as Buckwheat Dosa, is a type of dosa (pancake) made from buckwheat flour, which is commonly consumed during fasting periods in India, including Navratri. It is a nutritious and filling meal that you and your family will love. 

Recipe for Kuttu ka Dosa:

Step 1: Mix water and Kuttu Atta in a bowl and stir well until it makes a consistent batter.

Step 2: Add some ajwain (carom seed), red chilli powder, small cut green chillies and crushed ginger paste.

Step 3: Mix well and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Heat the flat pan and put a ladle of batter onto it. Spread it evenly.

Step 5: As it cooks, add a tsp of oil and flip it.

Step 6: Cook till both sides turn light brown.

Step 7: Serve hot with tomato chutney.