India

Karwa Chauth 2020: Why fasting is important for everyone and not only for women

November 04, 2020 11:08 AM

Karwa Chauth 2020: Karva Chauth is an important festival for married Hindu women. It is a one-day festival in which married women observe fast from sunrise to moonrise for the safety and longevity of their husbands. As per Drikpanchang, Karwa Chauth's fasting is done during Krishna Paksha Chaturthi in the Hindu month of Kartik and according to the Amanta calendar followed in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Southern India it is Ashwin month which is current during Karwa Chauth. However, it is just the name of the month that differs, and in all states, Karwa Chauth is observed on the same day.

This year Karwa Chauth will be observed on Wednesday, November 4, 2020. Karwa Chauth Puja muhurat begins at 06:03 pm to 07:12 pm. (Duration: 01 hour 09 mins). On this day, married women wake up early in the morning before sunrise to eat 'sargi' - a meal usually prepared by their mothers in law - mostly consists of Vermicelli, milk, and dry fruits. After this meal, they do not consume even a drop of water until the moon appears.

Fasting is important to detox and builds health and immunity. It lowers insulin levels and hence helps in Diabetes and hypertension.Fasting can be done daily in the form of intermittent fasting but should be done under proper supervision and expert guidance. Supplementation and electrolyte balance is very important."

Fasting helps weight loss

Fasting as we all know offers several health benefits and this has been backed by several studies. Forget the fat-burning foods, cleanses, and detoxes. Not eating is the key to losing weight. Fasting helps you to drop those extra pounds quickly.

Fasting as we all know offers several health benefits and this has been backed by several studies. Forget the fat-burning foods, cleanses, and detoxes. Not eating is the key to losing weight. Fasting helps you to drop those extra pounds quickly.

Fasting has a positive effect on the brain

As per many studies, fasting has a direct positive effect on brain chemistry. New neurons are formed during fasting and this improves brain functions and gives more mental clarity.

Fasting removes toxins from your body

Fasting is a perfect way to detox your body. Fasting seems a quick way to drop those extra pounds quickly. It removes toxins from your body by eliminating stored waste - excessive fats stored around your organs can interfere with organ function and your weight.

However, sometimes fasting from sunrise till moonrise can put extra strain on your body. It can leave you feeling weak and dehydrated, cause acidity and stomach gas, and even lower your blood pressure. So, to avoid such things, here are a few eating tips that you should follow for a healthier fast.

Before you start fast

During the last meal before starting the fast avoid overeating - overeating will make you hungry faster

A day before fast avoid the intake of foods that are hard to digest such deep-fried and oily stuff

Opt green vegetables (carrots, sweet potato, squash, pumpkin) - all these are considered to be strengthening foods that can help preserve energy for a longer period

Make sure that you drink plenty of water before the fast to keep the body hydrated

Don't forget to include at least one fruit and nuts like almonds, walnuts, etc.

After the fast

Although fasting can help detoxify your body and give you immense health benefits, but not breaking the fast the right way can derail your body's system.

Start with sips of water or fresh fruits and vegetable juice without adding refined sugar.

Eat some protein-rich foods that help decrease hunger and induce a feeling of satiation.

Make sure to include a bowl of plain curd in your diet after the fast.

Avoid oily foods, alcohol, caffeinated drinks immediately after the fast.

Do not overeat - overeating after fasting is a common problem, which leads to severe stomach problems.

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