Diabetes and Navratri Fasting: How Patients Can Safely Fast with Ayurveda & Science

New Delhi (Uttam Hindu News): Navratri 2025 is here, and devotees across India are gearing up for nine days of fasting to honor the nine forms of Goddess Durga. But for diabetic patients, fasting can raise questions about safety and blood sugar control. Experts in Ayurveda and modern nutrition say that with the right precautions, people with diabetes can enjoy Navratri fasts safely.

According to the Ministry of AYUSH and Ayurveda experts, maintaining the body’s balance of the five elements is crucial for health. If done correctly, fasting can help remove toxins from the body and give the digestive system a rest. Fasting for diabetic patients should be approached as “eating correctly” rather than simply “staying hungry.”

During fasting, one should avoid long periods without food. Lack of glucose may lead to weakness, dizziness, and even fainting. Therefore, diabetic patients should eat nutritious, low glycemic index (GI) foods every 2–3 hours. Options like Samak rice, buckwheat (kuttu) or amaranth (rajgira) flour, boiled sweet potatoes, fox nuts (makhana), and paneer are excellent because they digest slowly and do not spike blood sugar levels.

Hydration is equally important. Fasting can quickly cause dehydration, which is dangerous for diabetic patients. Along with water, coconut water, unsweetened lemon water, and buttermilk can replenish electrolytes and keep the body refreshed.

Modern fasting often includes fried foods and sweets, but science recommends avoiding them. Steamed, boiled, roasted, or lightly baked foods are better choices, keeping blood sugar levels stable and reducing digestive stress. Replace sugar with natural substitutes like stevia or jaggery.

In Ayurveda, fasting is considered a way to purify the body and mind. By following these scientific and Ayurvedic tips, diabetes patients can participate in Navratri fasting without compromising their health. Fasting can become a healing and spiritual experience when approached safely.