New Delhi: Diwali is a time for celebration, family, and of course, delicious food! From gujiyas to gulab jamuns, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering treats that fill our plates and hearts with joy. But let’s be honest – all that indulgence can take a toll on our waistlines and lead to a lot of post-Diwali stress! Post-Diwali weight gain is something many of us face, and while it’s completely normal to enjoy the festive season, it’s equally important to give our bodies the care they deserve once the celebrations are over.
We all know that Diwali sweets and snacks are rich in sugar, fat, and sodium. It’s easy to get carried away with plates full of samosas, ladoos, and pedas, and before we know it, we’ve consumed way more than our bodies need. Overeating during the festive season not only leads to weight gain but can also worsen health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes etc; and cause digestive issues, fatigue, and even skin problems like acne.
That’s why it’s essential to get back to a healthier routine after Diwali, so our bodies can reset and feel their best. Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, MetaHeal – Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Center, Mumbai; Saifee, Apollo, and Namaha Hospitals, Mumbai, shared some simple tips to drop the festive weight ahead of the wedding season.
Return to Your Healthy Routine: The first thing you should do after the festivities is to get back to your balanced, healthy meals. Your plate should be filled with nutritious foods – think fresh colourful vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits. Avoid heavy, oily foods or anything packed with too much sugar, salt, or fats. Your body will thank you for it, and you’ll notice the difference soon.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: We often get so caught up in the celebrations that we forget to drink enough water. After all those sweet and salty treats, your body needs proper hydration to flush out toxins and balance your system. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. You can also try coconut water, green tea, or even a warm cup of chamomile tea to keep you feeling refreshed. Staying hydrated helps prevent bloating and can even reduce those cravings that lead to overeating.
Get Moving: I know you’ve probably been a little less active during the festivities (hello, extended family visits, late nights, and those endless rounds of sweets!), but now’s the time to get back to your physical activity routine. Don’t think you have to hit the gym right away – start with something simple like a brisk walk after lunch or a short yoga session in the morning. Dance around the house to your favorite music or take the stairs instead of the lift. It all adds up, and it’ll boost your energy levels while helping to shed those extra calories.
Portion Control is Key: Let’s be real – overeating is often the biggest culprit behind post-Diwali weight gain. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re surrounded by food, but try to be mindful of portion sizes. Instead of having multiple servings of rich foods, aim to have smaller, balanced meals throughout the day. You don’t need to deprive yourself – just keep things in moderation. This will not only help you stay on track but will also improve your digestion and energy levels.
Get Enough Sleep: Diwali means late nights spent socializing, catching up with family, and visiting friends – all of which can leave us running on little sleep. Lack of sleep can disrupt your metabolism and make it harder to lose those extra kilos. It can also increase your cravings for high-sugar, high-fat foods, which can lead to overeating. So, after all the festivities, try to get back to a regular sleep schedule. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help your body recover, regulate hunger hormones, and reset your energy levels.
The first thing you should do after the festivities is to get back to your balanced, healthy meals. Your plate should be filled with nutritious foods – think fresh colourful vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
