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The celebration of Diwali 2025 is already up in the air. The festivities have begun with colorful decorations, live music and delicious food at parties. Food plays a big role in celebrations, but eating too much can make us feel bloated and uncomfortable instead of happy. The challenge is to find a balance where we can enjoy our favorite foods and still take care of our health. How can we enjoy delicious holiday meals while staying healthy?
What can I eat that’s healthy?
Let’s see which festive dishes can enliven your table without harming your health and which ones you should think twice about.
1. Homemade traditional sweets
Homemade dishes made with healthy ingredients can definitely be a part of our festive celebrations. Use the following ingredients for healthy recipes:
- Jaggery: This natural sweetener is rich in minerals like iron and magnesium, which may provide many health benefits.
- Ghee: “Ghee is often misunderstood, but it can help with digestion and balance hormones,” Dr. Arush Sabharwal, bariatric and metabolic surgeon at SCOD (Surgical Center for Obesity and Diabetes) Clinic, tells Health Shots.
- Dry fruits and whole grains: Think about your favorite sweets made with ingredients like gram flour and whole wheat flour. These ingredients provide good nutrition when you enjoy them in moderation.
Enjoy these dishes slowly instead of in a hurry. Take a bite or two and pay attention to their taste and the pleasure they bring. Think of these as more than just extra calories.
2. Dried fruits, nuts and seeds
These little powerhouses play a vital role when it comes to nutrition.
- Healthy Fats and Fiber: Almonds, walnuts and pistachios are good sources of healthy fats and fiber. They can help stabilize blood sugar levels and keep sugar cravings under control.
- Micronutrients: They contain important vitamins and minerals.
Avoid sugar-coated and fried nuts. Instead, choose roasted or soaked nuts. They are both delicious and healthy.
3. Sugar-free festive drinks
When choosing drinks, consider options beyond the sugary drinks and fizzy sodas that often fill our holiday tables. Here are some fresh options:
- Spicy Buttermilk: It not only provides freshness but also aids in digestion.
- Coconut Water: Coconut water is a hydrating option rich in electrolytes, says Dr Sabharwal.
- Almond Milk with Saffron: This special blend can satisfy your sweet cravings while still being healthy.
These drinks keep you hydrated and provide nutrients, making them excellent choices for your holiday meals.
4. Spices with traditional roots
Spices are used extensively in Indian cooking during festivals and for good reason.
- Healing Properties: Turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, cumin and fennel are not only delicious; They also help with metabolism, keep blood sugar levels stable and aid gut health, says Dr. Sabharwal.
- Taste and Nutrition: Using these spices in your food improves their taste and increases the nutritional value.
What is the most unhealthy food to consume?
Although it’s easy to want to eat everything during the holidays, it’s better to avoid certain festive foods. According to Dr. Sabharwal, here’s what to give up:
1. Foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates
It can be hard to resist commercial sweets and baked goods, but many of them contain refined sugars and flour. These ingredients can increase your blood sugar and lead to weight gain. Hydrogenated fats: Many store-bought snacks contain harmful ingredients. Instead choose naturally sweet or jaggery based options.
2. Deep fried foods
On festivals we often get delicious fried snacks like pakodas and puris. However, these foods can be unhealthy because:
- High trans fat: “Reusing cooking oil for frying increases levels of trans fats, which can harm your body by increasing oxidative stress,” the doctor says.
- Portion Control: If you find it hard to resist, try taking smaller portions. Whenever you can, choose air frying or baking instead.
3. Alcohol-induced dehydration
Celebrations can often turn into drinks-filled nights. Although this may be enjoyable, remember:
- Hidden Calories: “Alcohol contains a lot of calories and can dehydrate you. This can leave you feeling tired and lethargic,” says Dr. Arush.
- Choose wisely: If you’re drinking alcohol, choose water or sparkling water instead of sugary cocktails after each drink.
4. Eating breakfast without thinking
One of the biggest problems during the festive season is eating without noticing how much you have eaten. Mindfulness is key: Make time to sit down for a meal. Eating slowly and appreciating each bite helps prevent overeating.
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