Navratri 2023: If constipation is troubling you during fasting, then follow these tricks

Many people may become victims of constipation due to not eating enough fiber during the fast. Let us know how we can get rid of it.

The nine-day fast of Navratri has started from 15th October. Devotees of Maa Durga follow satvik food during their fast. In which he avoids salt, wheat, rice and many other food items. Most people take only fruit diet during this period. Fasting during Navratri provides many benefits to your body and mind. It not only helps in detoxifying the liver but also reduces the accumulated fat which can help in weight loss. However, eating deep fried food items and not including enough fiber or probiotics in the diet can backfire and lead to intestinal problems like acidity and constipation. Eating sour fruits on an empty stomach can cause acidity while not consuming enough water or hydrating foods can cause constipation.

What is acidity and constipation?

Acidity or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into the esophagus. This may cause irritation to the lining of your esophagus. On the other hand, constipation is caused by inadequate intake of water. This is a condition in which a person may have fewer than three bowel movements in a week or the stool is very hard, dry or lumpy. Including enough water, fruits, fiber, vegetables, probiotics can provide relief from these gastronomical problems.

Tips to cure acidity and constipation during fasting

During Navratri fasting, our eating habits may change and some of us may consume oily and fat-rich foods which can upset our digestive system. Also, some of us are eating more high-fibre foods and not drinking enough water which can lead to constipation.

Avoid sour fruits:

Eating sour fruits like orange, grapes and lemon on an empty stomach during fasting can cause acidity problems. Instead of these, one should eat banana, sapota and melon which are comfortable for the stomach. Citrus fruits like lemon, orange, tangerine and grapefruit are very acidic. Eating too many of these during your meals may cause you to experience acid reflux during fasting.

 stay hydrated

It is important to stay hydrated during the fast. Hot water instead of cold water can help during fasting. Also, it is advisable to drink water in small amounts or sip by sip instead of filling the stomach with a lot of water at one go. Drinking large amounts of water at one go can increase the problem of swelling and acidity. Liquids like coconut water, buttermilk with cumin powder, cumin water, lemon juice can maintain natural coolness in the body.

Drink buttermilk and cold milk

During fasting, include beverages like buttermilk and cold milk as these can keep the stomach calm and cool. Apart from this, drinking coconut water keeps the pH level balanced and is effective in removing harmful toxins from the body.

Eat banana and melon.

Give preference to fruits like banana and melon. Bananas contain high levels of potassium, which is known to fight and prevent acidity. It also contains fiber, which is good for the body during fasting. It also helps in maintaining balanced pH level in the body. Similarly, melon also helps in fighting acidity.

Disclaimer: Before implementing the method, methods and suggestions mentioned in this article, please consult a doctor or related expert.