Navratri has begun and people from across India and around the world celebrate it to honour the Hindu goddess Durga and her various forms over nine nights, particularly with dancing and fasting as significant rituals. During this time, a lot of attention is paid to one’s diet and what one chooses to eat and avoid. People typically eat foods, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and grains like buckwheat and amaranth while avoiding non-vegetarian items, grains like wheat and rice, and certain pungent spices.
While for a healthy individual with no pre-existing condition, adhering to a Navratri-specific diet may be easier, those with celiac disease may have to take a different course. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Ruchi Rai, Consultant Dietitian, SRV Hospitals, Goregaon, shares foods that celiac disease patients can have during the auspicious Navratri festival.
Also Read: Delicious But Nutritious Low-Calorie Foods for Navratri Fasting
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. It is the component that gives dough its elasticity, helps it rise, and is often responsible for the structure and texture of baked goods. However, some people have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder that does not allow people from having gluten-containing foods as it can cause adverse health effects.
Gluten’s Impact On Celiac Disease Patients
If you're suffering from celiac disease, eating gluten-containing foods can trigger an immune response, which can affect and over time, damage your small intestine's lining, preventing the absorption of nutrients, explains the Mayo Clinic.
According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease. A study published in the Journal Gastroenterology and Hepatology reports that the condition is one of the most common genetic disorders, affecting approximately 1% of individuals worldwide.
Common digestive symptoms associated with celiac disease include:
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Bloating and gas
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Gluten-Free Foods To Choose This Navratri
Since Navratri is one of the biggest festivals in India, it is but natural to want to celebrate it with utmost vigour and sincerity. This includes people with celiac disease. Dietician Rai shares a few ways that are possible and the foods to opt for if you have any form of gluten intolerance.
- Opt for naturally gluten-free options like buckwheat, amaranth, and water chestnut (kuttu) flour, commonly used during this time. These grains not only offer essential nutrients but also make delicious dishes like "Kuttu ki Roti" or "Singhara Atta Halwa."
- Sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls, is an excellent carbohydrate source and gluten-free, which makes it a suitable option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is an ideal choice for quick energy boosts during fasting..
- Load up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to ensure a well-balanced diet. Embrace the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine and experiment with spices and herbs, which are naturally gluten-free. Just be cautious about cross-contamination and always read labels.
Conclusion
If you have celiac disease, it is important to avoid all foods and products that contain gluten, as even tiny amounts can do much damage in the long run. Steer clear of wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives, such as wheat-based bread, pasta, cakes, and cookies. Also, avoid cross-contamination in shared kitchen equipment and utensils, and carefully read food labels to identify hidden sources of gluten. For the best food and dietary experience, speak with a certified dietician or doctor.