12 Navratri foods that you can eat during fasts

Navratri will be celebrated from 18th March 2018 this year. The grand fasting time of the year typically lasts for nine days and is hugely celebrated. This is also the perfect time to detox so that you help get rid of all the unneeded substances in your body. Navratri is also a great time for those wishing to start their weight loss story. This period of fasting for 8-9 days can help take control of your appetite which you won’t have otherwise. Following are the foods you can consume during Navratri fasting:

1. Potatoes: Great in complex carbs to make you satiated for a long time is the option for snacks and as a meal as well. Potatoes can be boiled or cooked in less oil if you don’t want to eat anything unhealthy. Opting for processed potato chips which promise to be specially made for this time is not the best option as it does not go well with the idea of detoxification and fasting in the right spirit.
2. Cottage cheese: Keeping your protein intake up is needed during this time and cottage cheese is a great option. You can either have cottage cheese in the form of a subzi or even as a snack. Sprinkling some sendha namak and coriander leaves is all you need.
   
   
3. Lauki: Lauki can be cooked in minimal oil and consumed during meal time. Lauki is rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, iron and magnesium. SInce lauki is high in water content it is also good for hydration.
4. Kaddu: Rich in fiber, potassium and vitamin C, kaddu or pumpkin is great for your heart as well. You can eat kaddu in meals and as a dessert as well by adding sugar and ghee to it.
5. Tomatoes: Since technically tomatoes are considered fruits, they can be consumed during Navratri fasting. You can consume their juice or add them whole in your vegetables. Tomato salad is also an option you can consider for snacks or with your meals. You can add cut tomatoes in yoghurt and make raita.
   
   
6. Sabudana: An ingredient famous only during Navratri, sabudana or sago is a healthy underrated food which is cooked in a variety of ways during this time. You can prepare sabudana khichdi, chaat, kheer and even roti and savour during Navratri. Sabudana or sago is loaded with calcium, fiber and vitamins and is an ideal choice for fasting period.
7. Kuttu: Navratri is also a good time to stay away from gluten products and feel lighter. Since you cannot have wheat rotis and you still need your power dose, kuttu atta rotis are the best option. You can either have them fried or sear them on the pan. Savour them with ghee as they have the added benefits of fiber, antioxidants and proteins!
8. Singhada: Also known as water chestnut, singhada is another option for rotis with your subzis. Singhada is rich in vitamins and minerals and is often used as a thickener in other dishes.
9. Makhanas: Makhanas are great low-calorie snacks you can have through the day at home or at office. Loaded with calcium, makhanas are a go-to option if you get unneeded hunger pangs. You can roast them with sendha namak and store them in a box.
   
   
10. Samak rice: For rice lovers, samak rice is your substitute for the week. This healthier alternative of rice can either had in the form of roti, kheer or simply its natural self. You can add peanuts and curry leaves as a garnish to bring in a twist of flavour.
11. Arbi: Also known as colcasia roots, arbi is another subzi to add to your list during navratri (and in general). This is a good option to add to your plate as it contains the right amount of fiber and carbohydrates.
12. Fruits: Yes, even though super obvious, you can consume fruits to detoxify in the most natural manner. Add them in a smoothie and have them for breakfast, cut them and consume them as snack and whenever craving for something sweet, you can even make their kheer!

source—TOI