Overview

• Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar highlighted four additions for this week’s fast—rajgira for iron, cashews for magnesium, bananas for vitamin B6 and legumes as protein—via an Instagram post amplified by multiple outlets.
• Dietitians caution that fried potato pooris, pakoras, sabudana vadas and sugar-heavy treats turn fasts into carb-heavy meals that can trigger bloating, acidity, energy crashes and potential weight gain.
• Experts advise limiting sabudana because it is mostly starch with little protein or micronutrients, noting special caution for people managing diabetes, hypertension, obesity or heart conditions.
• Practical plans promote millets and pseudo-cereals such as samak, kuttu, singhara and rajgira alongside paneer, yoghurt, nuts and seeds, with meal templates and a seven-day plan to keep energy and protein steady.
• Hydration guidance prioritises water, coconut water, chaas and herbal teas, with suggestions for quick sattvic drinks and reminders on portion control and mindful eating to prevent overeating.