Sawan Special: 10 Low-calories Foods to Eat during Sawan

Sawan, an auspicious month in the Hindu calendar which holds high cultural and religious importance, is around the corner. According to Hindu mythology, the regenerator and destroyer of the world, Lord Shiva, is worshipped during this holy period. Devotees worship the Supreme Being and observe fast, or some follow a special diet as a mark of reverence. During the holy month of Sawan, food is a major source of showing devotion and respect to the high being; for example, abstaining from the consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food, and some even avoid the consumption of onions and garlic. Fasting is a proven method to purify our mind and body, while devotees simply look at it as a small act of worship to seek blessings and pray for the well-being, prosperity, and happiness of their loved ones. But uneven and unplanned consumption during the fasting process can lead to nausea, headache, weight gain, and more. So, in this article, we bring you foods to eat during Sawan period that are low-calorie and healthy. 

Introduction

Now every auspicious period in Hindu mythology has a story, and so does the holy month of Sawan. The tale of Samundra Manthan is intricately linked with the month of Sawan. It depicts the churning of the cosmic ocean, where both the Devtas and Asuras come together to obtain the nectar of immortality. Lord Vishnu took the form of a giant turtle to support the churning of the elixir as the pivot. As the process continued, several gods and goddesses, along with precious objects, emerged, including Kamadhenu, the divine cow, Goddess Lakshmi, Airavata, and the celestial elephant. And lastly came, Dhanvantari, the physicians of the devtas, who emerged out of the pot carrying the elixir of immortality. However, a fierce battle erupted between the Devtas and the Asuras to possess the Amrit. But the Amrit was rested under the layer of poisons. And Lord Shiva decided to consume the poison to save the world and distribute the elixir among the gods. To stop the poison from entering his body, goddess Parvathi held Shiva’s neck to stop the flow of poison, which turned his throat blue, earning him the name “Neelkanth^[1]”. And to express gratitude and respect toward his selflessness, devotees engage in prayers, fasting, and other religious practices during the period of Sawan. Devotees also offer Gangajal to the Shiv Ling to ease his pain and discomfort caused by poison. 

In today’s article, we will provide you with a list of 10 foods to eat during Sawan that are both low-calorie and nutritious. As food holds great significance during the month of Sawan, many devotees observe fast or follow a restricted diet as a way of devotion and worship. Traditionally, people opted for food prepared without garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian ingredients. This elimination is proven to purify our mind and body as well as spiritually strengthen our overall well-being. Additionally, adapting to unhealthy food choices while fasting or consuming only one meal throughout the day can affect our health negatively. In this article, we will provide you with a list of low-calorie of foods to eat during Sawan periods. These food choices will help you include a well-balanced diet filled with essential nutrients and vitamins, and more. 

10 Low-Calorie Foods to Eat During Sawan

Let’s read through the list of 10 foods to eat during Sawan that will balance your spiritual and physical health and leave you filled, full, and energised for a longer period. This list of foods to eat during Sawan is made by keeping in mind both the summer and monsoon seasons. Let’s get started:

• A2 Dahi: A2 dahi is a curd type that is made from the milk of desi cow breeds. This milk type is not only extremely delicious but also loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins required by our bodies daily. A cup of fresh A2 dahi contains vitamin B12, protein, calcium, and probiotics. Probiotics are the components that promote healthy gut bacteria in our digestive system, which aids in boosting immunity, digestion, and overall digestive functions. One can enjoy this dairy product in the form of Lassi, raita, or as a standalone snack. 

• Green Leafy Vegetables: Significant foods to eat during Sawan are our not-so-favourite but healthy, Green leafy vegetables. Leafy vegetables such as Fenugreek, kale, and spinach are all excellent choices as they have high nutrient density. They are a rich source of vitamins A, K, and C, and fibre, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. This vegetable can be highly versatile to be consumed in many forms like cooked dishes, smoothies, stir-fries, or salads.

• A2 Milk: A2 milk is a milk type produced by desi Indian cows. It is a nutritious, low-calorie beverage that contains A2 beta-casein, that are easily digestible in comparison to regular milk type. A2 milk is also a high source of vitamin D, protein, calcium, and other essential minerals and vitamins. It is also suitable for individuals suffering from lactose intolerance as it does not harm our gut system and is easier to digest. 

• Bottle Gourd: Bottle Gourd, popularly known as Dudhi and Lauki, is a versatile vegetable that has high water content and low calories. This vegetable is an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibers, which are required by our bodies regularly. Bottle gourd can be consumed in many forms, such as soups, curries, stir-fries, sweets, or even in the form of juice. 

• Cucumber: Cucumber is low in calories and high in water content and is in the league of foods to eat during sawan. They are not only rich in water, but also essential fibre, water, and essential vitamins like Vitamin C and vitamin K. This delicious vegetable can be consumed as a refreshing snack, in salads, or in raitas. 

• Moong Dal: Moong dal is another popular Indian famous lentil that can top your list of foods to eat during Sawan. Being a rich source of protein and low in calories, lentils are versatile, accessible, and affordable food to eat during Sawan. They are also a great source of minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibre. One can prepare for themselves a nutritious and light moong dal chilla, khichdi, dal, and pakodas. 

• Watermelon: One of the significant fruits to eat during Sawan is the delicious and healthy watermelon. This fruit is not only delicious but extremely hydrating and nutritious. Watermelon is also a good source of vitamins like vitamins A and C. One can enjoy this delicious red wonder as a refreshing snack, smoothies, and juice. 

• Sprouts: Sprouts are an extremely healthy addition to our list of foods to eat during Sawan. They are not only a rich source of nutrients but also low in calories. Sprouts are packed with minerals, vitamins, fibre, and protein. They can be made from legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and mung beans. One can add sprouts to their wraps, salads, or stir-fries for a filling and healthy meal. 

• Yoghurt-based Smoothies: Smoothies are one of the extremely delicious and healthy additions to foods to eat during Sawan. And yoghurt-based smoothies are a rich source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, making them a nutritious and filling choice. One can blend yoghurt with fruits like mangoes, berries, or bananas, with preferred vegetables for a filling and refreshing bowl of smoothies. 

• Papaya: Another fruit in our list of foods to eat during Sawan is non-other than papaya, a delicious tropical fruit. Papayas are a rich source of antioxidants, dietary fibres, vitamin A, and vitamin C. One can easily enjoy fresh papaya in the form of smoothies, juice, and a standalone snack. 

Conclusion

The month of Sawan is an extremely auspicious month, according to the Hindu calendar, as it highlights our religious and cultural fervour. During this holy period, devotees offer prays, observe fast, or follow a specific diet as a mark of reverence to our supreme being, Lord Shiva. This article highlights 10 foods to eat during sawan that are extremely delicious, filling, nutritious, and low in calories. By incorporating these delicious fruits and vegetables into our diet, one can maintain a balanced diet along with experiencing the benefits of both spiritual and physical well-being during the sacred month. 

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