Karwa Chauth 2023: Who should avoid fasting?

While Karwa Chauth fasting is beneficial for health, experts warn some groups of people to be careful or avoid fasting altogether. Here are some people for whom fasting may not be suitable.

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | Updated: October 31, 2023 06:04 PM IST

4 min read

karwa chauth, karwa chauth fasting, fasting benefits

Karwa Chauth: It's important to understand that fasting, especially without water, can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. (Representational image via Canva)

Listen to this article

Your browser does not support the audio element.

The auspicious festival of Karwa Chauth, also known as Karak Chaturthi, will be celebrated on November 1 in 2023. On this day, married women observe a day-long fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being, longevity and prosperity of their husbands. The fast is quite rigorous as women abstain from food and water, until they break it after seeing the moon at night.

According to Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, chief nutritionist, Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, the Karwa Chauth vrat or fast has several benefits. “By abstaining from food and drinks, the body shifts its focus towards internal cleansing and rejuvenation. This allows the digestive system to rest and reset, potentially improving digestive efficiency and overall well-being,” she said.

Additionally, fasting can also contribute to weight management by reducing calorie intake and promoting the use of stored body fat for energy. “The reduced digestive activity and release of ketones during fasting can enhance mental clarity and focus, providing an alternative energy source for the brain,” Dr Rohatgi told indianexpress.com.

Similarly, Sannya A Arora, therapeutic nutritionist and founder of Ttranszerro said that fasting can have positive effects on mental and emotional well-being as it promotes discipline, self-control and provides a sense of accomplishment.

But it’s important to understand that fasting, especially without water, can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone.

Here are some people who should be cautious or avoid fasting, as per the experts:

Karwa Chauth 2023 Date and Time: Karwa Chauth can be traced back to the Mahabharata. (File)

*Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Fasting during pregnancy or while breastfeeding can deprive both the mother and the baby of essential nutrients and fluids. It’s important for pregnant and breastfeeding women to maintain a balanced diet for the health of both them and their child.

*Elderly individuals: Older individuals may have specific dietary needs and health concerns. Fasting could potentially exacerbate existing health conditions or lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Story continues below this ad

*Diabetes: Fasting can significantly affect blood sugar levels. People with diabetes, especially those who take medications to regulate blood sugar, should consult a healthcare professional before fasting.

*Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Fasting can lead to drops in blood pressure, which may be problematic for individuals with high blood pressure. Consulting a healthcare professional is important.

*Heart disease: People with heart conditions may be advised to avoid or modify fasting, especially if it involves dehydration or significant changes in diet.

*Kidney disease: Those with kidney disease may need to be cautious about fluid intake. Fasting without proper hydration can exacerbate kidney issues.

Story continues below this ad

*Gastrointestinal disorders: Conditions like peptic ulcers, gastritis, or inflammatory bowel disease can be aggravated by fasting.

*Eating disorders: Individuals with a history of eating disorders should avoid restrictive fasting practices, as it may trigger or exacerbate disordered eating patterns.

*People with chronic illnesses: Those with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, or autoimmune disorders, may have specific dietary and nutritional requirements that could be compromised by fasting.

*Individuals on medications: Some medications may need to be taken with food or at specific times. Fasting may interfere with the effectiveness or safety of certain medications.

Story continues below this ad

*Individuals with low body weight: Those who are underweight or have a history of malnutrition should be cautious with fasting, as it can lead to further nutrient deficiencies.

ALSO READ | Foods to eat and avoid a day before Karwa Chauth (and what you must include in your sargi thali)

*Individuals with mental health conditions: People with certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or eating disorders, may find fasting to be emotionally or psychologically distressing.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!

From the homepage