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Dietician Sheela Seharawat

Balancing Sweets and Health: Mindful Indulgence this Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in India. It's a time when homes are adorned with colorful lights, and families come together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. However, it's also a time when sweets and indulgent treats take center stage.

As a registered dietitian, I understand the significance of traditional Diwali sweets, but I also recognize the importance of maintaining a balance between celebration and health. In this blog, I'll share valuable insights and practical tips on how to indulge mindfully during Diwali without compromising your well-being.

The Sweet Side of Diwali

Diwali and sweets go hand in hand. From luscious ladoos to delicate jalebis, the array of traditional sweets during this festival is simply irresistible. While it's essential to honor and enjoy these culinary traditions, it's equally crucial to approach them mindfully. Here's how you can achieve a balance between the joys of Diwali sweets and your health goals:

1. The Power of Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is a practice that encourages you to be fully present during your meals and savor each bite. It's a powerful tool for enjoying Diwali sweets without overindulging. Here are some mindful eating strategies to apply:

Savor Every Bite: Take the time to taste and appreciate the flavors, textures, and aromas of each sweet you consume. This allows you to truly enjoy the experience.
Portion Control: Use smaller plates and bowls to help control portion sizes. Start with smaller servings and savor each one before considering seconds.
Avoid Mindless Snacking: Be aware of your triggers for mindless eating, such as watching TV or browsing the internet. Try to eat sweets at the dining table, so you can fully focus on the experience.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're satisfied, even if there are sweets left.
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to Diwali sweets, quality matters. Instead of indulging in a wide variety of sweets, choose a few high-quality ones that truly satisfy your cravings. Opt for homemade or locally sourced sweets made with natural ingredients.

3. Share the Joy

Diwali is a time for sharing and connecting with loved ones. Consider sharing your sweets with family and friends. This not only spreads joy but also reduces the quantity of sweets you consume individually.

4. Make Healthier Versions

Experiment with healthier versions of traditional Diwali sweets. You can use ingredients like jaggery or honey instead of refined sugar, whole grains instead of refined flour, and nuts for added nutrition.

5. Stay Active

Don't let the festive season disrupt your fitness routine. Staying active helps burn off excess calories and maintain your overall well-being. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing to Diwali tunes, find ways to keep moving.

6. Hydrate Wisely

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking.

7. Plan Ahead

If you know you'll be attending Diwali gatherings with tempting sweets, plan your meals accordingly. Eat a balanced meal before heading to an event to reduce the temptation to overindulge.

8. Avoid Late-Night Sweets

Eating sweets close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep and lead to weight gain. Try to consume sweets earlier in the day, so your body has time to digest them before you sleep.

9. Be Mindful of Added Sugar

Many packaged sweets contain added sugar, which can be excessive. Check labels and choose sweets with less added sugar, or opt for homemade versions where you can control the sugar content.

10. Enjoy Savory Delights Too

Diwali isn't just about sweets; it's also a celebration of savory snacks and dishes. Balance your sweet indulgence with savory items like chakli, namak pare, or samosas, which can be equally delightful.

11. Practice Gratitude

Diwali is a time of gratitude and reflection. Take a moment to appreciate the joy of the festival, the company of loved ones, and the delicious sweets that are part of the tradition.

12. Don't Deprive Yourself

Lastly, remember that Diwali comes once a year, and it's okay to enjoy your favorite sweets in moderation. Deprivation can lead to overeating later, so allow yourself to indulge sensibly.