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Ganesh Chaturthi is a time of joy. It is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu deity revered as the Lord of Wisdom and Prosperity and the Remover of Obstacles. The festival is celebrated by installing Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals, offering prayers, hymns, and sweets like modak, and concluding with the immersion of the idols in water during a grand procession known as Visarjan.
While the festival is all about fun, festivities, and devotion, for people with high blood pressure, or hypertension, it can also bring health challenges. Long hours of preparation, late-night celebrations, salty festive snacks, and even stress can raise blood pressure unexpectedly. The good news is you can still enjoy the celebrations while also protecting your heart health. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of your lifestyle choices, even in the middle of celebrations.
Also Read: Heart Health: How To Bring Down Alarmingly High Blood Pressure Levels
Watch What You Eat – Choose Your Foods Smartly
Festive feasts often include fried snacks, sweets, and salty treats that can easily raise blood pressure. Foods high in salt cause your body to retain water, which increases blood pressure. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the daily recommended amount for sodium is less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day. Therefore, here are foods you should eat and avoid/limit:
- Limit deep-fried snacks like chakli, pakoras, and namkeen.
- Avoid excess salt in festive curries and chutneys.
- Balance heavy meals with lighter, home-cooked options such as steamed or grilled dishes.
- Add more fresh fruits and salads to your thali to balance festive indulgence.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make your blood pressure fluctuate. With all the running around during puja preparations, people often forget to drink enough water. Therefore, here are some tips to keep you hydrated throughout the festival:
- Carry a bottle of water with you if you’re attending pandals.
- Limit sugary beverages and aerated drinks, as they can increase blood sugar and indirectly affect blood pressure.
- Opt for lemon water, coconut water, or buttermilk as refreshing festive drinks.
Don’t Skip Your Medicines
If you are already a hypertension patient, it is crucial to consistently take your BP medications. According to research, not adhering to BP medication is common and can result in uncontrolled blood pressure and increased mortality, making it crucial for patients to consult their doctor before stopping any medication.
Amidst the excitement of Ganesh Chaturthi, do not skip your daily dose of medicines. Missing even a single dose can cause sudden spikes. Here's how you can avoid unnecessary complications:
- Keep your medicines in a small pouch if you’re attending functions outside.
- Set a reminder alarm on your phone so you don’t forget your schedule.
Also Read: Should Hypertensive Patients Take Hot Baths? Doctor Answers
Manage Stress And Rest Well
Festival preparations, guest visits, and long hours of socialising can sometimes feel overwhelming. And as is known, stress is a known trigger for high blood pressure.
If you ever feel stressed or overwhelmed, remember to practise deep breathing or meditation for 10 minutes in the morning before the festivities begin. Avoid overcommitting to events, and listen to your body and rest when needed. Moreover, ensure at least 6–7 hours of quality sleep to allow your body to recover.
Stay Active Amid Celebrations
Even if you don’t get time for a full workout, try to stay active during the festival. Here's how you can incorporate simple physical activities into your routine:
- Walk to nearby pandals instead of taking your vehicle.
- Take short walks after meals to aid digestion.
- If you are involved in puja decorations and arrangements, use it as a way to stay physically engaged.
Keep A Watch On The Warning Signs
Even if you find yourself busy, take time out to assess your health. If you feel a severe headache, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden vision changes, check your blood pressure immediately and seek medical help. Festivals should never come at the cost of your health.
Takeaway
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time for devotion, positivity, and celebration. However, if you're a blood pressure patient, it is crucial to enjoy it with caution. With mindful eating, proper hydration, stress management, and adherence to medications, people with high blood pressure can enjoy the festival safely.