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For many people, Navratri is the perfect means to detoxify and revitalise one's body and mind through fasting. This nine-day Hindu festival of worship dedicated to goddess Maa Durga and her nine manifestations (forms) consists of refraining from some foods like meat, garlic and ginger and in place consuming sattvic foods. However, famous nutrition expert RujutaDiwekar emphasises that Navratri is more than just detoxing or fasting - it's about promoting digestion, diversity and destressing.

In fact, Diwekar highlights four essential foods that can elevate energy, support women's health and restore equilibrium, making Navratri a celebration of nourishment as much as prayer. By focusing on balance, diversity and digestion, individuals can truly harness the benefits of Navratri and emerge feeling revitalised and refreshed.

Must-Have Foods For Navratri

Rajgira

Rajgira, also called amaranth, has been a top food option for fasting for centuries because of its high iron content. Consumed as laddoos, rotis or chikkis, it strengthens haemoglobin, hair quality and stamina. Nature has specifically made this ancient grain strong but gentle on the stomach in order to become a good fasting food.

Cashews

Cashews are abundant in magnesium and are often overlooked as a healthy snacking option for fasts. They additionally help reduce leg cramps, an upset digestive system and restless sleep because they soothe the nervous system. A handful of cashews can be beneficial, helping you to feel more relaxed and centered, a great complement to your Navratri fasting meals.

ALSO READ: Easy Sabudana Tikki Recipe: How To Make Sabudana Tikki At Home For Navratri Fast 2025?
 
 
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Bananas

Bananas not only provide a quick source of energy but also offer vitamin B6 for emotional health. They assist in stabilising mood, alleviating premenstrual symptoms and improving digestion due to their prebiotic properties. As we fast during Navratri, bananas provide emotional clarity as well as physical strength and can help ensure a balanced and harmonious fasting experience.

ALSO READ: 5 Healthy Foods To Eat With Makhana During Fasting Days For High Fibre Intake

Legumes

In the Navratri traditions of South India, legume dishes are commonly eaten such as sundal. Making sundal with sprouted chana, lobia or rajma and lightly spiced, sullal is easy to prepare and balanced with protein and amino acids to strengthen our bones and brain function. These simple yet effective legume dishes provide energy during fasting for both the body and soul.