Mahashivratri is one of the most auspicious nights for Hindus, especially for the devotees of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. The joyous devotees of Lord Shiva observe ‘Satvik Vrat’ (fast) today in order to respect him.
Fasting is known to purify the mind and body. While some devotees choose to do ‘Nirjala Vrat’, fast without consuming food or water, others fast with vrat-friendly foods like millets, fruits, arbi, sabudana, dairy products and so on. While fasting, it is important to avoid wheat, rice, certain pulses and vegetables. Non-vegetarian foods, onion and garlic are to be avoided strictly by those who are fasting on Mahashivratri.
Sabudana, also known as Sago Pearls, are one of the most popular vrat-friendly foods. This simple yet flavourful dish has a long-standing place in Indian cuisine, especially during fasting periods when certain grains and lentils are avoided. However, its appeal goes beyond fasting, as it offers a host of health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits
Sabudana is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing a quick and sustainable energy boost. This makes it an excellent choice for breakfast or as a mid-day snack. Additionally, sabudana is low in fat and protein, making it easy to digest, which is particularly beneficial during fasting when heavy foods are avoided.
Sabudana also contains minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining bone health, preventing anaemia, and regulating blood pressure. Furthermore, it is gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Digestive Health
Sabudana khichdi is good for digestion as it contains good amounts of dietary fibre. It helps in improving digestion related problems like gas and bloating. It promotes healthy bowel movements. Study says that sabudana is easily digestible. Sabudana may also help in alleviating constipation and other digestion related problems enhancing the gut health.
Also read: Mahashivratri 2024: Here Are Healthy Foods To Eat While Fasting
Regulating Blood Pressure
The potassium content in Sabudana promotes healthy blood flow in the body and keeps your blood pressure in check. A healthy blood flow in the body reduces the stress on your heart promoting heart health.
Promotes Foetal Growth In Pregnant Women
Sabudana is rich in vitamin B6 and folate. Both these nutrients are essentially required for the proper growth of the foetus. It also can ensure proper brain development of the baby. This is how Sago can benefit your unborn child.
Improves Bone Health
Sabudana contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron which are great for enhancing bone health. These three nutrients help in increasing bone density promoting good bone health. Sabudana can prevent issues like arthritis and osteoporosis.
Good Source Of Energy
Being rich in carbohydrates, Sabudana gives you much needed energy, which is why it is considered essential for fasting. If you are looking for healthy weight gain, sabudana can be a beneficial food for you to add in your diet.
Also read: Inside Rishi Sunak’s 36 Hours Fasting: Is Monk Fasting Right For You?
Bottomline
Variety of dishes can be made using these white tiny balls, and Sabudana Khichdi tops the list. Apart from khichdi, Sabudana vada, papad, chips, kheer and many more delicious dishes can be made out of it. Sabudana provides several health benefits however, it should be noted that due to its high carbohydrate content, it should be avoided by diabetic patients.