Diwali, India's biggest and most widely celebrated holiday, is almost here and people are looking forward to celebrating it with full fervour and enthusiasm. It is that time of the year when people forget all their worries, differences, and come together to enjoy good food, good people, and festive vibes. During this time, there is no one to stop us from eating our favourite dishes, be it fried items or sugary treats. For those on a weight loss plan, it may become difficult to stay on track. Having said that, we at OnlyMyHealth spoke to Divya Gopal, Consultant Dietitian and Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, Bengaluru, who shared a few tips to keep festive weight gain at bay. Here’s what you can do:
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Portion Control And Mindful Eating
Portion control is the practice of limiting the quantity of high-calorie foods and sweets one consumes, explained Gopal, sharing that one can follow it by using smaller plates and serving dishes. Similarly, mindful eating emphasises on paying attention to what you eat, how much you eat, and how well you savour each bite. Both of these strategies can not only help with weight management, but can also help you enjoy your food while preventing overindulgence.
Look For Healthier Food Options
Gopal said, “Avoiding weight gain during Diwali celebrations can be challenging, as this festive season is known for its delicious sweets, snacks, and rich meals.” Therefore, what you can do is opt for healthier snacks and sweets, such as roasted nuts, dried fruits (in moderation), or homemade sweets with less sugar and ghee, she advised.
Stay Hydrated
To control your appetite and prevent overeating, drink plenty of water. Amid celebrations, you are likely to forget to keep yourself hydrated. However, set a reminder to drink 7-8 glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration and to detoxify your body from all the unhealthy foods you might eat. Ensure that you stay away from carbonated drinks and other sugary beverages.
Plan Your Meals
To avoid giving into your cravings, plan your meals in advance.
“Balance your festive meals with lighter, healthier options during the day. Include more vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains in your regular meals,” Gopal advised.
Indulge in nutrient-dense foods that keep you energised throughout the day.
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Get Active
Most importantly, do not forget to exercise or keep physically active. It is important that you continue to engage in regular physical activity during Diwali.
According to the nutritionist, staying active can help offset some of the extra calories you consume.
Festive Food Alternatives To Choose
If you’re on a weight loss journey, it is crucial to avoid certain foods or consume them in moderation. Here are some festive foods to be cautious about along with their healthier alternatives:
- Deep-fried snacks, like samosas, pakoras, and kachoris
Alternative: Oven-baked or air-fried snacks like baked samosas or vegetable fritters using minimal oil
- Sweets and desserts, like gulab jamun, jalebi, and laddoos
Alternative: Homemade sweets with reduced sugar and ghee, or opt for fresh fruit salad with a drizzle of honey.
- Sugary drinks and sodas
Alternative: Infused water with slices of fruits and herbs, herbal teas, or unsweetened beverages
- High-sugar snacks, like candy and mithai
Alternative: Nuts and seeds, dried fruits, or dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content
- Alcohol consumption
Alternative: Consume alcohol in moderation and include water or non-alcoholic alternatives between drinks.
Bottomline
Festive occasions should be celebrated with full vigour and enthusiasm. However, if you’re someone who really enjoys food but is also conscious of weight gain and associated health issues, it is best to choose healthier options and eat in moderation. Practice portion control and indulge in mindful eating. Do not skip your exercise routine and also keep hydrated throughout the festivities.
