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Are you a new mother who is fasting on Karwachauth? Or are you that mother who is keeping a fast this Karwachauth and whose baby is breastfeeding? Well! Then, this Karwachauth fasting tips post is definitely a must-read for you. New moms celebrating Karwachauth, we’ve got your back! Check out our blog for 8 essential fasting tips to make your day a breeze. Here’s to a beautiful and blessed Karwachauth!
What is Karwachauth?
First and foremost, for our international readers, let me clarify the essence of Karwachauth. ‘Karwa’ translates to a pot, and ‘Chauth’ signifies the fourth. This single-day festival is primarily observed by married and soon-to-be-married North-Indian women. They fast from sunrise to moonrise, seeking the prosperity and long life of their spouses. However, in the pursuit of maintaining a harmonious relationship with their husbands and in-laws, a wife, daughter-in-law, and mother cannot compromise their well-being. That’s why The Champa Tree offers a set of valuable fasting and health tips for this Karwachauth, with a special focus on new mothers.
An ideal and robust relationship encompasses love, happiness, and the fulfillment of our fundamental needs and duties. To achieve this, it’s vital to maintain good health and well-being. It’s often stated that when a mother’s health is in good standing, the overall family’s well-being thrives as well.
Therefore, this Karwachauth, let’s adhere to some beneficial fasting and nutritious eating guidelines to ensure the well-being and joy of the lady of the house! Because it’s not solely about the husband’s prosperity; it’s about the overall happiness and health of the family.”
8 Karwachauth fasting tips for new mothers:
Many women, spanning various age groups, experience common challenges when fasting, especially during Karwachauth. These issues may include acidity, nausea, low blood pressure, migraines, and more. For nursing mothers, dealing with hunger concerns is an additional challenge. To help mitigate these issues, here are some tips to consider before, during, and after the fast, ensuring that you remain in good health even in the days following the fast when potential after-effects are felt.
Before the fast:
1. Consume a moderate amount of Sargi
The ritual of eating a meal (sargi) before the sun rises includes sweets, paranthas, milk and semolina, dry fruits, and fruits. For a nurse or a new mother, it is suggested that she can also go a bit of the tradition. Why? Because paranthas and sweets can be really heavy. Such food items can cause acidity. If at all you want to eat all heavy/oily food items, be sure to hydrate yourself well to keep it going till the moon rises. Or else, introduce modern dietary elements in your sargi.
2. Non-traditional Sargi
Opt for whole wheat bread with cottage cheese and potatoes. Have it as a grilled sandwich with a glass of juice and a handful of nuts (soaked almonds, raisins, walnuts, figs). Banana shake is also a good option. This will ensure you have proteins and carbs that should take care of you for the day. Cleanse off your digestive system with a glass of coconut water. Basically, consume a low-fat diet to avoid acidity or a sudden bloated feeling and wash it down with all-natural electrolytes.
During the fast:
3. Modify your fast
Yes! You heard me right. Your health is important. Besides, you are also taking care of your little one. Most of the working women/mothers/new mothers have been choosing to ‘fast right’. How? Introduce water/juice/coconut water/tea to your daytime fasting regime. A few sips from time to time will keep your body hydrated. I know a lot of women think it’s just a matter of one day, but well, not all body types are suited to keep a day-long fast! I repeat, health is important. Moreover, a nursing mother needs to keep herself hydrated, NO MATTER WHAT!
4. Add nuts/fruits to your fasting regime
Nuts serve as a rapid and reliable source of sustained energy due to their nutrient-rich composition. Incorporating them into your dietary routine can provide you with a convenient energy boost whenever needed. Therefore, it’s advisable to have a piece of fruit, like a banana, or a small handful of nuts at regular intervals throughout the day. This practice helps maintain your energy levels, prevent sudden drops in blood sugar, and ensures you remain alert and active, especially during fasting or periods of low food intake.
5. Avoid consuming too much tea or coffee
One of the most important and useful Karwachauth fasting tips for new mothers is to avoid consuming tea or coffee during the fasting period. These caffeinated beverages can have a dehydrating effect on the body, potentially leading to issues such as acidity and nausea. Staying hydrated is crucial, and opting for water or other non-caffeinated, soothing drinks can help you maintain better well-being throughout the day. Prioritizing hydration and choosing the right fluids can significantly contribute to your comfort and overall health during the fasting process.
Helpful tip for pregnant moms and new mothers nursing babies under 7 months:
It is not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers with babies under seven months to observe a fast, especially one that involves abstaining from liquids. Hydration is crucial for both the expectant mother and the baby. It’s essential to ensure that you stay well-hydrated to support your health and the well-being of your little one. Therefore, it’s best to refrain from fasting during this phase and focus on maintaining your fluid intake to meet both your and your baby’s needs.
After the fast:
6. Break it the subtle way
Don’t break your fast with anything fried and/or food items high in sugar. It is bound to be putting a lot of stress on the digestive system.
7. Hydrate first
Start with a few sips of water, perhaps coconut water!
8. A wholesome meal
It is advised that you consume a well-balanced meal that includes vegetables, cottage cheese, homemade curd, whole grain bread, vegetable rice with pulses, sabudana khichri or/and something mildly sweet. 
Word of caution:
Any new mommy who has a condition of diabetes, low BP, or low Hb levels should avoid fasting the traditional way. Pregnant and nursing mothers should check with their doctors (gynecologists and pediatricians) before deciding or avoiding to fast.
Have fun fasting Mommies 🙂
