Karwa Chauth, one of the most celebrated festivals in India for married women, will be celebrated on October 10, 2025. On this day, women observe a nirjala fast, abstaining from food and water for the long life and well-being of their husbands. Breaking this long, nirjala fast needs careful attention as to what to avoid eating first, straining the digestive system, whereas refilling the lost energy, as well as hydration. Selecting the right foods and drinks to consume after a fast is crucial for restoring energy and providing gentle nourishment.
Traditional post-fast options such as coconut water, chhach, fruits, and ladoos not only restore the body but also ease the stomach after a day of fasting. These foods are rich in natural sugars, proteins, electrolytes, and antioxidants, which makes the transition from fasting to eating smooth. It is crucial to plan your post-fast meal mindfully to ensure that the devotion of Karwa Chauth goes hand in hand with physical well-being.
Nariyal Pani
Nariyal pani, or coconut water, is the best drink to first have after a day-long nirjala fast, as it immediately hydrates the body. Light, hydrating, and rich in potassium, nariyal pani helps in restoring the body's balance without hampering the digestive system. The natural sugars provide a gentle boost of energy, whereas its cooling properties soothe the stomach after a day-long fast. Sipping coconut water first provides gradual rehydration and prepares the body for the next foods.
Chhach
Chhach, or buttermilk, is another excellent option to have after a day-long fast without water. It contains probiotics that support digestion, while the liquid quickly rehydrates the body and cools internal heat. To elevate the taste further, you can add a pinch of roasted cumin, black salt, or mint to replenish the lost minerals and prevent bloating. Consuming chhach first helps the stomach to digest and provides gentle nutrition, making it perfect for maintaining the energy level and balancing the electrolytes after following the day-long nirjala fast.
Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits such as watermelon, papaya, and muskmelon are an excellent source to get hydration and soothe the stomach after a fast. Fruits have natural sugar that gives a quick energy boost, fibre to help in digestion, and high water content to rehydrate the body. Fruits also produce vitamins and antioxidants that fight exhaustion and oxidative stress caused by fasting. Eating fruits first helps relieve sudden stomach heaviness and enables the body to absorb nutrients efficiently. Having fruits is a refreshing and light start to the post-fast meal.
Ladoos
Ladoos prepared from dry fruits, besan, or sesame seeds are an excellent source of restoring energy after breaking a nirjala fast. They provide healthy fats, proteins, and slow-releasing sugars, which give the body a sustained boost of energy without overloading the digestive system. Dry fruit ladoos also supply the essential minerals which replenish nutrients which is lost during fasting. Eating one or two ladoos after breaking the fast helps the body regain power gradually, making it a traditional yet practical option for post-fast nutrition.
Vegetable Upma
Vegetable upma is another ideal post-fast meal to have to soothe the stomach and give the body instant nourishment. Prepared with soft semolina and lightly cooked vegetables such as peas, carrots, and beans, vegetable upma is an ideal choice to have as a first meal after fasting. Mildly spicy and easy to digest, it provides fibre and gentle nourishment to the stomach.