USA, September 8, 2011 (MSN.com): The practice of fasting is common to many religions. It is an integral part of Hindu culture, where individuals observe different fasts depending on their beliefs and practices. Several holy days are occasions for fasting; for many, it is a more regular ritual. Many devotees of Lord Shiva fast one day each week, while others fast on days of Purnima (full moon) or Ekadashi (11th lunar day, occurring twice a month).
Some Hindu fasts avoid salt during the day but allow sweets like sago kheer, makhana kheer, fruits, milk products and nuts. Others avoid cereal products, sticking to fruits, burfis, milk and milk products until evening. During fasts like Navratras, food products commonly consumed are potatoes, kuttu ka atta (buckwheat) and its products, sago (also known as saboo dana or tapioca pearls), samak rice and special salt.
These religious fasts are different from those done for purposes of weight loss. Potatoes, kuttu ka atta, dairy products, sweets, nuts and fruit are high in calories; such a fast may result in gaining weight. In addition, a restricted diet may lack essential vitamins and minerals–and people often end up eating more during such fasts than when not fasting!
Many people today fast to detoxify the body by consuming only fruits, vegetables, fruits juices and water. These foods do help detoxify the body, and they are high in vitamins and minerals. But such a diet is healthy for only a day or two. If continued longer, it deprives the body of calories, proteins, vitamins like vitamin-B, calcium, iron and other essential minerals.
Points to remember:
– Fasting is good for short periods, but avoid long fasts.
– Drink plenty of fluids, especially plain water. Water is the most essential liquid for the body. Lemon water, coconut water and buttermilk are also good.
– Avoid caffeine, whether from coffee, tea or soft drinks.
– If you will be eating certain foods during your fast, choose items that are high in vitamin and mineral content. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables in the form of salads. Sprouts can also be eaten during a detox diet to provide protein and vitamins like vitamin C.
Fasting is healthy if an individual eats a healthy diet and fasts for short periods.