Navratri is round the corner and the feeling of immense pleasure, joy and festivities has already sunk in. Navratri is one of the most exhilarating festivals in India and is celebrated with great pomp and show around the country. The durga pooja, garba dance and religious music mark power of the Goddess Durga with glee and enthusiasm in the air.

Along with the boundless and never ending prayers and enjoyment, most of the families in the Northern India observe fasting for the 9 days continuously in which one also has to follow several precautions.

So, Dr. Rita Bakshi, Senior Gynaecologist and Founder, International Fertility Centre has rolled out some tips and advices for all the pregnant women who will be fasting this Navratri.

1. There are often some restrictions while fasting like consumption of salt only one time throughout the day. The pregnant women shall have to consume sweetened foods throughout the day which is not really advisable. Consuming such high amount of sugar content could be dangerous for both mother and the baby. Therefore, it is important to be flexible. Also, do not skip on consuming salt as lack of salt content can lead to weakness and fatigue.

2. Stay hydrated throughout the day. Go in for milkshakes, lassi, coconut water, smoothies, milk and fresh juices to derive maximum nutrition. Also, consume plentiful vegetables, curd, salads, kheer and fresh fruits.

3. During Navratri we are often dependent on excessive oily based foods like tikki, potato chips, pakoras etc. Therefore, all the mothers should stay away from all the oily and deep fried foods for your proper skin and health.

4. Festivities come along with a lot of hustle and bustle. But don’t forget that you are pregnant. Get ample amount of rest and break and do not get deviated from your routine.

5. Just in case you feel any kind of uneasiness, sickness or faintness during fasting, it is advised to resume your normal dietary routine. In such cases, if possible, please visit your doctor and follow her suggestions.

6. Prospective Mother’s with chronic diseases like High Blood Pressure and Diabetes should take extra care of themselves and avoid fasting if possible. They must go in for fasting on alternate days or at the beginning or end of Navratri.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a very crucial stage and any ignorance or carelessness could lead to a misfortune. Also, the baby is completely dependent on the mother for dietary supplements therefore; the mother simply cannot afford to risk the baby’s health. Navratri are days for happiness and cheerfulness so, devour and munch on abundant and copious nutrients for a healthy baby.

By Dr. Rita Bakshi. The author is Senior infertility specialist & gynecologist Dr. Rita Bakshi is the chairperson of International Fertility Centre.