Navratri Fasting Rules: 5 Foods To Avoid That Can Break Your Fast

Navratri Fasting Rules: The vibrant and significant Hindu festival, Navratri is commemorated with great grandeur and enthusiasm across different parts of the country. Celebrated by millions, Navratri signifies the nine divine incarnations of Maa Durga and their powers. As the name suggests, Navratri spans nine days and each day is associated with the worship of one avatar of Goddess Durga. Along with that, fasting is an important ritual that is followed by devotees to seek blessings of the deity. 

During fasting for Navratri, devotees need to be mindful about their culinary choices. According to popular beliefs and customs, certain foods and beverages are prohibited during Navratri fasting to avoid breaking your fast. Understanding what to eat and avoid is integral to maintaining the sanctity and spirit of this auspicious festival. Here are five foods that you must avoid in Navratri if you are observing fast. 

Foods To Avoid In Navratri Fast

Non-Vegetarian Foods

Devotees should strictly avoid the consumption of non-vegetarian foods like meat, chicken, fish, eggs etc during Navratri, even if they are not fasting. This helps in purifying the body and mind and increasing the spiritual essence of the festival. 

Alcohol

If you are observing Navratri fast, abstain from consumption of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol and alcoholic beverages can interfere with your rational thinking and disrupt your spiritual thoughts. 

Certain Vegetables

Foods To Avoid During Navratri (Image Credits: Canva)

Although many vegetables are permissible during Navratri fasting, consuming onions, garlic and root vegetables like carrots and cabbage should be avoided. This is because these vegetables have strong flavours which stimulate the senses and interfere with the spiritual goals of your fasts. 

Pulses And Grains

Avoiding pulses and grains like wheat, rice, lentils and others should be kept in mind. Instead consume sattvic foods like fruits and vegetables such as potatoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, bottled gourd and others. 

Processed Foods

Packaged or processed foods are usually loaded with preservatives, additives and artificial ingredients that may cause stomach ache, indigestion and other digestive problems during fast. Therefore, one should consume whole foods instead of processed foods to nourish the body naturally. 

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