Post-festival binge? Here’s what healthy eating looks like 

If you are feeling sluggish, bloated or out of balance after festive celebrations, you are not alone. These are effects of indulging in rich, sugary, and fried foods. Therefore, post Diwali celebrations your body requires rest and reset, which comes through healthy eating. Healthy eating means choosing balanced, nutrient-rich foods that fuel your body. It’s about enjoying a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in the right portions. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and staying hydrated, you boost energy, support mental clarity, and reduce the risk of chronic illness.

Making small, intentional shifts in your diet and routine post-festivities can be an effective way to support digestion, energy, and your health, says Tanvi Chavan, clinical nutritionist and certified diabetes educator at One Health Assist. “These changes don’t have to feel restrictive; they’re about embracing choices that make you feel good and energised,” she adds.

Chavan shares 5 easy ways to get back on track for better health post festivities:

• Wholesome snacks to re-energise: You don’t have to quite eating sweets altogether, you just have to make a healthier choice. After indulging in sweets, swap sugary treats for nutrient-rich snacks like roasted nuts and seeds, homemade oat-and-date energy bites, fruit-and-nut bars, or makhana (fox nut) snacks. These options provide a satisfying crunch without the excess sugar, fueling your body with steady energy.

• Stay hydrated with a twist: Hydration is essential, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Add lemon, orange slices, or cucumber to your water, or enjoy caffeine-free herbal teas. These choices spruce up the flavour and also aid in hydration and detoxification.

• Practice mindful eating: Shift your focus to mindful eating, slowing down to savour each bite. This practice can help prevent overeating and allows you to better tune into your body’s hunger and fullness cues, making healthy eating feel enjoyable and natural.

• Move more, sit less: Whether it’s a short walk, some light stretching, or a relaxing yoga session, gentle movement can boost your energy levels and mood. Regular activity aids digestion and refreshes your mind, helping you reset with ease.

• Choose fresh, unprocessed foods: Opt for fresh, whole foods and limit processed snacks that often contain added sugars and unhealthy fats. Wholesome, homemade choices are nourishing and can also help curb lingering cravings for sugary and fried foods.