Navratri fasting: Almond kheer, vegetable soup and other healthy snacks to satisfy your cravings

Health benefits of makhana: Makhana is a light, crunchy snack that is low in calories and high in antioxidants. You can enjoy them roasted or lightly spiced, making them a perfect guilt-free option to munch on during fasting (Image: Canva)

Navratri, a fun-filled festival celebrated with fervour and devotion, is marked by fasting for nine nights in honour of the divine feminine. As participants engage in Garba and Dandiya nights, the festive atmosphere is infectious, and the energy is palpable. However, fasting during this period can be challenging, especially when your body craves energy to sustain the long hours of dandia dancing and celebration.

Fasting during Navratri does not have to be  about abstaining from food; it is actually an opportunity to cleanse your body and focus on spiritual growth. When you engage in vigorous activities like Garba, your body requires adequate fuel to maintain stamina and avoid fatigue. The physical exertion can lead to a significant energy deficit, making it essential to add nutrient-dense snacks that provide sustained energy without the guilt of heavy indulgence.

Here are 7 guilt-free snacks to satisfy your cravings while fasting during Navratri:

• Fruits and nuts: A simple yet effective choice, fruits provide natural sugars and essential vitamins. Apples, bananas, and pears are excellent for a quick energy boost, while nuts like almonds and walnuts offer healthy fats and protein. Together, they create a balanced snack that can keep you feeling full and energised.

• Makhana (fox nuts): Makhana is a light, crunchy snack that is low in calories and high in antioxidants. You can enjoy them roasted or lightly spiced, making them a perfect guilt-free option to munch on during fasting. Their high magnesium content can also help keep your energy levels stable.

• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can be incredibly satisfying and nourishing. Loaded with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables, this low-calorie snack helps hydrate and energise your body, especially after an evening of dancing.

• Cucumber tomato salad: A refreshing mix of diced cucumber and tomatoes, seasoned with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, providing vitamins K and C, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamins C and A.

• Boiled potato and peanut chaat: Combine boiled potatoes with roasted peanuts, chopped onions, and spices for a delicious and energising chaat. Boiled potatoes offer a good source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium, while peanuts are high in protein, healthy fats, and magnesium, which help sustain energy levels.

• Sweet lemon water (Shikanjee): A refreshing drink made with fresh lemon juice, water, and a touch of honey or sugar. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and enhancing iron absorption, while honey or provides quick energy and contains trace minerals.

• Almond rose petal kheer: A creamy dessert made from almond milk, sweetened with sugar and infused with rose petals. Almond milk is low in calories, high in vitamin E, and provides healthy fats and calcium.