Sawan Somwar 2023: 12 Healthy Fasting Tips To Keep In Mind

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With the season of Sawan arriving, so does the auspicious tradition of fasting on Mondays, also known as "Sawan Somwar." Fasting during this time is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, fostering a sense of devotion and self-discipline.

However, doing a fast requires careful consideration to ensure your well-being and health throughout the process. And we are here to help you out with that! Read on...

Tip 1: Start your day with good hydration to avoid headaches

To kickstart your day on the right note, it is crucial to stay hydrated. It is recommended to incorporate hydrating beverages such as coconut water, lemon water, homemade iced tea, or buttermilk. These drinks replenish electrolytes and keep you refreshed throughout the day.

Tip 2: Consume a fruit that kicks in your energy

A quick and healthy way to boost your energy levels during fasting is by consuming fruit. Bananas are an excellent choice as they are rich in natural sugars and potassium and provide instant energy.

Tip 3: Consume nuts to keep your energy longing

Nuts are a fantastic source of energy and essential nutrients. One can incorporate almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and figs into the fasting diet. These nuts provide healthy fats, proteins, and dietary fibre, keeping you satiated and energized.

Tip 4: Include curd for lunchtime with a bowl of fruits

During lunchtime, it is essential to maintain a balanced meal that keeps the stomach full and cool. Curd is a probiotic-rich food, and one can have it with a bowl of fruits for maximum benefits. This combination provides essential nutrients, aids digestion, and keeps the body cool.

Tip 5: Avoid spices to avoid heartburn

To prevent heartburn and discomfort during fasting, it is advisable to avoid spices such as black pepper, red chilli, and green chilli. One can opt for milder flavours and seasonings to prevent any gastric issues that may arise during fasting.

Tip 6: Avoid heavy food while breaking the fast

Breaking the fast after a long duration of abstinence requires caution. Heavy foods that may lead to severe gastric issues should be avoided. It is important to consume food in moderation and opt for lighter options to ease the digestive process.

Tip 7: Add electrolytes

Fasting causes dehydration and loss of electrolytes. Make sure to replenish with water with added electrolytes. Having electrolyte-rich foods like bananas, pistachios, coconut water, and salty foods before and after your fast is also helpful.

Tip 8: Avoid stress

Fasting creates stress in the body and raises your cortisol. You should try to avoid stressful and triggering situations which can be difficult to deal with at this time. Prioritize rest and relaxation.

Tip 9: Fasting foods

What you eat around your fast plays a big role in how healthy and functional your fast is. Make sure to include enough healthy fats and protein which help the body sustain periods of fasting more easily.

If you're only eating carbohydrates, especially refined carbohydrates and sugar, then your body becomes overly dependent on dietary sugar for energy, making fasting very difficult.

Tip 10: Break the fast with low-GI foods

What you eat to break your fast is critical. You should break your fast with a light low glycemic (doesn't spike blood sugar) meal. Your blood insulin and sugar levels are very sensitive during a fast and thus can get spiked easily, causing a shock to the nervous and endocrine systems.

Tip 11: Skip sabudana

Sabudana, though popularly eaten between and after a fast is not a healthy option because it is a highly refined carbohydrate that spikes your blood sugar. Fruits, dates, and raw honey are some healthy carbohydrate options instead.

Tip 12: Consider supplementing

Fasting depletes your nutrient stores quickly. Additionally, most people also avoid animal-based foods during the entire Sawan month, further aggravating the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Essential supplements like B complex, vitamin D, and amino acids can be very helpful during this time.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.