Hyderabad: The fast of Karwa Chauth is considered to be one of the most difficult fasts as many women observe it strictly for a day. Some people start observing this fast from the beginning of a new day, while some people consider the period before sunrise as "Brahmamuhurta" on the day of fasting. In some communities, there is also a tradition of eating 'Sargi' before sunrise, in which women eat certain types of food, after which they do not consume food and water for the whole day and complete the fast at night after worshiping the moon.
Usually during or after this fast many women face issues like weakness, headache, lack of energy in the body, or gas and acidity. This sometimes affects women even after the day of the fast. To avoid such situations, it can be very beneficial to keep some precautions in mind. Dr. Sadhna Aggarwal, Doctor of Homeopathy and Naturopathy from Delhi, informs that if some things are kept in mind not only during the fast but three to four days before it, then it can help women to a great extent.
She tells that, especially for women suffering from acidity, diabetes, blood pressure, or any disease and condition and pregnant women must consult a doctor once before fasting and if possible should not observe the fast. But if they are still adamant about observing the fast, then they should take special care of their daily routine, diet, and the precautions prescribed by the doctor.
On the other hand, women should keep some things in mind before, during, and while breaking the fast. Dr. Sadhna tells that women who follow the Sargi tradition should take special care of what type of diet they are consuming in the form of Sargi. Because many times, eating spicy or too sweet food, not only leads to dehydration but also causes gas, headache, lethargy, and lack of energy in the body.
She suggests that if possible, consider a diet consisting of milk, curd, paneer, or chenna, which are high in protein in the form of Sargi. Dishes made of mixed flour, dry fruits, fruit juice, or fruits to be made. Smoothies and coconut water should be consumed. This will keep the body hydrated and energized and also there will be less feeling of hunger. The women who consider fasting from 12.00 at midnight, should include protein-rich foods like cheese, mixed flour roti, or paratha, and easily digestible foods in the first meal of their fast.