Should Diabetics Fast in Navratri?

Navratri is a grand festival celebrated across several parts of the country. Though fasting is a way of showing devotion to the goddess Durga, it is imperative for all individuals who are fasting to take care of their health. It becomes even more important for individuals with diabetes to take extra precautions in order to avoid any sugar spikes. 

Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Is there an ideal way of fasting?

People follow different methods of fasting during Navratri. While some people fast daily for nine days and eat just once a day, others consume fruits, tea, and fox nuts at regular intervals while avoiding any salt intake. Even though one is fasting, certain foods, such as fruits and nuts can be consumed throughout the day. Individuals must consume food every 3 hours, even while fasting.

Meals During Fasting 

1. Pre-Fast Meal

The meal preceding the fasting period should contain slow-release calories like complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, proteins and a moderate amount of healthy fats. It should be a balanced meal containing unprocessed and unrefined cereals, pulses, lentils, vegetables, fruits, limited oil, and nuts to reduce its glycemic index and retain energy availability for a longer period. Water and fluids should be adequately included to prevent dehydration.

2. Meal Pattern

In Navratri, there are no fixed norms for eating patterns and beliefs. They vary from community to community. 

3. Meal Composition

Follow the plate method during Navratri with timely distribution of carbohydrates throughout the day and you must include all food groups. Complex carbohydrates and low-caloric fluids and beverages must be preferred. 

4. Meal Frequency

Eating small, frequent meals at regular intervals of about 3 hours is beneficial for diabetic individuals along with choosing healthier options among the foods allowed during fasting.

Sample Meal Plan

 

Early Morning	1 Glass of Water with Chia Seeds
Breakfast	Makhana and Nuts with Milk + 1 Apple
Mid Morning	Boiled Peanuts
Lunch	2 Singhara Rotis +1 Cup Salad (grated carrot cucumber)
Evening Snack	Green Tea + ½ Cup Makhana + 2-4 Walnuts
Dinner	80- 120g Grilled Paneer + 1 Cup Sauteed Veggies in Ghee (1 cup capsicum and carrot)

 

Are there some risks involved?

Diabetic people can suffer from hypoglycemia (low sugar), hyperglycemia (high sugar ) or dehydration during fasting. A change in the pattern of diets or medications can cause a sugar imbalance. Hence, it is advisable to be conscious of your diet and avoid consuming excessive carbohydrates after breaking the fast. 

Should diabetics take some health measures during fasting? 

• Keep your blood sugar levels in check since fasting might cause a sugar imbalance. 
• Monitor your blood sugar levels while fasting, after meals, and around bedtime. If you feel uneasy or experience symptoms like sweating, weakness, a fast heartbeat (palpitations), tingling, lightheadedness, numbness in your feet, or frequent urination, immediately check your sugar levels with a glucometer. 
• Keep yourself adequately hydrated and consume small meals at regular intervals. 
• Focus on concentrated energy sources like nuts and dry fruits, and consider eating whole fruits instead of fruit juices. 
• Add dairy products like paneer or curd in the form of buttermilk when you are fasting. 

Healthy Navratri Foods:

1. Singara Atta (chila,roti)
2. Apple/Avocado smoothie or vegetable juices
3. Makhana/ Peanuts 

Conclusion

It is crucial to remember that everyone's response to fasting is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Safety and health should be the top priorities for individuals with diabetes. If fasting during Navratri is a significant part of your religious or cultural practise, working with your healthcare provider and a registered dietitian can help you develop a fasting plan that ensures your blood sugar remains well-controlled and stable throughout the fasting period.