Rujuta Diwekar Reveals the Best Navratri Foods for Women's Health and Vitality

Navratri is not only about worshiping and celebrations, but also about a mindful way of aligning the body with the rhythms of nature. While many see the nine days as a period of fasting or detox, dietitian Rujuta Diwekar reminds us that these practices are about much more: balance, diversity, and digestion. Instead of deprivation, Navratri meals are a celebration of sattvic foods that nurture both body and mind.

This season, Rujuta Diwekar highlights four essential foods that can elevate your energy, support women's health, and restore equilibrium, making Navratri nourishment as much as prayer.

Rajgira: The Strength Grain

Rajgira, also known as amaranth, has been a staple food during fasts for centuries. Whether rolled into laddoos, cooked into rotis, or pressed into crunchy chikkis, this grain is packed with iron. Iron not only maintains stable haemoglobin levels but also improves hair quality and stamina. In essence, rajgira fuels strength while staying light on the stomach, making it perfect for days of mindful eating.

Cashews: Calm for the Nerves

Often overlooked during fasts, cashews (kaaju) are rich in magnesium, a mineral essential for nerve and muscle health. If you struggle with leg cramps at night, digestive discomfort, or restless sleep, a handful of cashews can work wonders. They help calm the nervous system, leaving you more relaxed and centred during the festival.

Bananas: The Mood Lifters

Bananas are more than a quick snack. They are a source of vitamin B6, a nutrient that supports emotional well-being. B6 not only helps regulate mood but also provides relief from premenstrual symptoms such as breast tenderness. Plus, with prebiotic properties, bananas aid digestion and help maintain gut health. Navratri is as much about mental clarity as physical strength, and bananas make sure you stay balanced on both fronts.

Legumes: Ancient Wisdom from the South

Legume-based dishes like sundal, made from chana, lobia, or rajma, are an integral part of South Indian Navratri traditions. Sprouted and lightly spiced, legumes deliver a punch of protein and amino acids, strengthening bones and supporting brain function. They embody the philosophy of eating simple yet powerful foods that sustain energy over long hours of fasting.
 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar)