Holi 2024 Detox: Holi is a time of guilt-free indulgence and joyous celebration. No festival in India is complete without a wide spread of food and Holi can be no exception. Every region of India has a Holi specific dish which makes the list of unique Holi foods quite long. Gujiya, Malpua, Thandai, Namakpare, Puran Poli, Ghevar and Dahi Vada are some of the traditional foods enjoyed during the festival of colours. While the memory of this delicious thali stays with us throughout the year, the festival often leaves us with excess calories and fat, leaving us on a guilt trip. Hence detox after the festivities is a must and should include a mix of stomach-friendly and nutritious foods. (Also Read | Holi 2024 Weight Loss: 7 Dietary Changes To Lose Weight Before Holi)
“Holi brings us together with its vibrant colors and mouth-watering dishes like Gujhiya, Malpua, Thandai and Puran Poli. With such uncontrolled consumption of food, health often lags behind. Here’s what’s for sure Here are some ways how you can have a healthy and quality life even after the festivities,” says Shivani Bajwa, functional medicine and health expert.
Detox tips after Holi
1. Lemon water
It is true, eating extremely unhealthy food gives pleasure that bitter gourd or tart lemon can never give, but it also harms our body. So, prepare a glass of lukewarm water, squeeze a lemon in it and sip it slowly, starting your day with a refreshing drink. This will definitely help in eliminating the toxins accumulated during Holi celebrations.
2. Eat protein
Cutting down on carbohydrates is essential for balance. This includes sweets and fries, which are a must-eat during any festival. Avoid junk food and sugary soft drinks at all costs. A healthy option would be to switch to a protein-rich diet as it satisfies our hunger, keeping us full for longer periods of time, thereby preventing overeating. Lean proteins like tofu, lentils, beans and fish, when consumed optimally, also help burn more calories, maintain muscle mass while reducing excess fat.
3. walking fast, running
Aerobic, or cardiovascular training, helps you lose weight while getting fitter. Try familiar exercises like running, brisk walking and jumping, enroll in a swimming or Zumba class, or start yoga. Exercising the body in physical activities revs up the heart, pumps more oxygen into the body, and produces sweat, as well as detoxification and burning calories.
4. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is a research-backed way to burn calories. Water cleanses our system, flushes out toxins and aids digestion. Drinking plenty of water also keeps our stomach full, preventing ‘snack breaks’ which add extra calories to our diet. It also maintains kidney health and works wonders for our skin.
5. Dahi-khichdi
It is essential to consume homemade, gut-friendly food like curd and khichdi which are rich in dietary fibre. Adding vegetables and fruits to your diet may also help. It is very effective in dealing with indigestion, constipation and bloating. Starting a crash diet is a health risk, as losing too much weight can do more harm than good. Remember, it is a mix of healthy eating and moderate exercise that is the key to a smooth, disease-free life.
