Tips to manage weight during festivities

As we all know that Indian festivals are incomplete without sweets and it is a common for to all of us to get stressed and confused about – “should we eat” or “ not or how much to eat ?”  and so on. Most of us have stopped enjoying the festivals because of the constant fear of gaining weight.

Here are some tips to follow during the festivals-

Go for other alternatives of refined sugar.

Organic jaggery, dates, kharik powder or honey are good alternatives but we have to keep n mind that these too come with calories and have to eat in moderation. Also try some sugarfree versions and enjoy the natural sweetness like sugar free kheer, halwa etc.

Choose a healthier option

like dry fruit based sweets or sweets made from dates rather than sweets with refined sugar  or deep fried sweets. Eg- have rasgulla (squeezed) rather than gulab jamun.

Control the portion size.

Don’t overindulge in any sweetdishes. Make small size laddus or burfis and stick to having only one at a time. Also kheer, halwa or ice creams can be had in a small bowl and only 1 bowl at a time.

Compensate for the extra calories eaten.

Do not starve or do crash dieting but in the next few days exercise little more or have healthy snacks or early light dinners for few days after the festival is over. Remember to exercise during the festival too to keep burning the extra calories.

Eat the sweets with meals.

Cut down half a roti or little rice in your meal and balance the extra calories from sweets, by doing this you will get the satisfaction of eating the sweet and also compensating for the extra calories.

Nibble on the Prasad. 

Take a small bite of laddu or pedha which is offered to the God as Prasad, by doing this you will save considerable amount of calories.

Prasad time schedule matter to the body- as we know there is morning and evening aarti. Have sweets as Prasad in morning aarti as the body can handle it better than evening/ night aarti.  It is always preferable to have a slice of fruit or dry fruit for evening aarti.

FAQ’s

1. How can I manage my weight during festive seasons?

You can manage your weight during festivities by practicing portion control, staying physically active, choosing healthier food options, staying hydrated, and avoiding overeating during celebrations.

2. Why do people tend to gain weight during festivals?

Weight gain during festivals often occurs due to increased consumption of high-calorie foods, sweets, sugary beverages, frequent social gatherings, and reduced physical activity.

3. Can I enjoy festive foods without gaining weight?

Yes. You can enjoy festive treats in moderation while balancing your meals with healthy foods, controlling portion sizes, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

4. What are the best healthy eating tips during festivals?

Focus on eating balanced meals, increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, limiting fried foods, choosing smaller portions, and avoiding excessive snacking.

5. How important is exercise during festive celebrations?

Regular physical activity helps burn extra calories, improves metabolism, supports digestion, and reduces the risk of festive weight gain.

6. Should I skip meals before attending a festive gathering?

No. Skipping meals can lead to overeating later. Eating a healthy meal or snack beforehand can help control hunger and improve food choices.

7. How does hydration help with weight management during festivals?

Drinking enough water can reduce unnecessary cravings, improve digestion, support metabolism, and help prevent overeating during celebrations.

8. What are some healthy alternatives to traditional festive sweets?

Healthier alternatives include fruit-based desserts, dry fruits, yogurt-based treats, sugar-free sweets, and portion-controlled homemade recipes.

9. How can families encourage healthy habits during festivals?

Families can prepare nutritious meals, participate in physical activities together, encourage mindful eating, and focus on celebrating without overindulging in food.

10. When should I consult a doctor or nutrition expert about weight management?

If you have diabetes, obesity, heart disease, thyroid disorders, or difficulty managing your weight, consulting a healthcare professional can help you develop a safe and personalized plan.

GANPATI  BAPPA  MORYA

By- Pallavi Nigavekar

(Dietician, ONP Hospitals)