Chhath Puja 2023: Follow These Expert Backed Tips To Avoid Stomach Problems During Chhath Puja Fast

The auspicious festival of Chhath Puja sees millions of devotees every year observing a three day long fast during which they can not consume any food or even a drop of water. Going three days without any food or water can take a toll on your digestive system, and can cause myriad stomach problems. 

Hence, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Pooja Shah Bhave, Dietician and Diabetes Educator, Assisting Chief Fitness Officer, CEAT Limited, to get some tips to avoid stomach problems during the three day fast.

Avoiding Stomach Problems During Chhath Puja Fast

Firstly Bhave recommended that in order to avoid stomach problems during the three day fast, you have to prepare your body in advance. “Avoid outside food at least one week before the festival. Outside food disrupts digestion and may irritate the stomach and the gut. It can increase acidity levels especially for someone who has a prior acidity problem,” she said.

She added, “Outside food can also cause infections and food poisoning which is not desirable during the festival.”

Also Read: Chhath Puja 2023: Here’s How You Can Maintain Your Energy Levels During Chhath Puja Fast

Recommending a few dietary tips to be followed before the big fast, Bhave listed:

• Consume home cooked meals one week before the fast.
• Preferably these meals should be simple, satvik (vegetarian without onion, garlic, and salt) and easy to digest. 
• Avoid non-vegetarian foods except eggs.
• Avoid vegetables that can cause excessive gas like onion, garlic, cauliflower, cabbage, brinjal and pulses like rajma and chole a week before the fast to reduce flatulence
• Reduce spice levels in your food to provide relief to your stomach and its lining.
• Having probiotics like a bowl of curd can be beneficial to ensure good gut health before the fast.
• Drink two to three liters of water daily a week before the fast to avoid severe dehydration during the fast.

Also Read: Chhath Puja 2023: Here Are 10 Tips For Upcoming Fasting

Following these tips before the fast can ensure that you have a healthy and stable gut, and your stomach and intestine are prepared to observe the fast. Bhave concluded that if you experience low blood sugar levels, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea,feeling jittery, lightheadedness or fever while following the three day fast, consult a healthcare professional immediately and feel free to abandon the fast. It may go against your religious servitude, but good health will allow you to offer your devotion to your god for a longer time.