Navratri is a time when many people observe fasting or follow a vegetarian diet, which makes almonds an ideal addition to this diet as they are gluten-free. Rich in plant protein and 15 essential nutrients, almonds are also ideal for people following a vegan diet. Their versatility allows them to enhance traditional Navratri sweets and snacks by offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste and festive enjoyment.

Adding almonds to your special Navratri meals not only improves the taste and crunch but also provides numerous health benefits. Almonds support heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels, and help control blood sugar levels when part of a well-balanced diet. Rich in 15 essential nutrients, including protein and dietary fiber, almonds offer filling properties that help you feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight management. Moreover, regular consumption of almonds promotes healthier, glowing skin because they are rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects against oxidative damage and supports skin health. Recently released Indian Council of Medical Research, National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) The Dietary Guidelines for Indians recognize nuts such as almonds as nutritious and can be consumed daily for overall good health as part of a balanced diet, both as a source of plant-based protein and as a healthy snack.

Ritika Samaddar, Regional Director, Dietetics, Max Healthcare, New Delhi said: “Navratri is a time when people in many parts of the country observe fasting, but many do not know how to do it. The most important aspect of fasting is how to break it. It is very important to avoid highly processed, sugary foods or instead focus on including nutrients such as almonds which are rich in some essential nutrients that contribute to the overall well-being of the body. Adding a handful of almonds to your diet can provide various health benefits such as supporting weight management, helping control blood sugar levels and helping lower bad cholesterol levels.

Fitness trainer and Pilates champion Yasmin Karachiwala said: “I recommend engaging in activities such as brisk walking, yoga or cardio exercises at home, even during festivals, as it helps maintain your energy levels so you can fully enjoy the festivities without compromising your well-being. Additionally, mindful eating is extremely important. Adding nutritious foods like a handful of almonds to your holiday meals not only improves the taste, but also provides a healthy boost of energy. I always suggest carrying a box of almonds with you to avoid unnecessary indulgences on special occasions.

Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Dietitian said: “Festivals are a time when most people enjoy delicious food, which can often lead to weight gain and other health problems – a concern for many of my clients. I highly recommend enjoying the holiday season while being mindful of what you eat. The key is to include natural foods like almonds in your holiday meals and avoid processed foods high in fat, sugar and refined carbohydrates. Almonds, rich in essential nutrients such as calcium and magnesium, are particularly helpful in weight management due to their filling properties, helping you feel full for longer and reducing unnecessary snacking. This Navratri, make wise choices, stay healthy and enjoy the festivities.”

Sheela Krishnaswamy, a nutrition and wellness consultant, highlighted that holiday indulgences can often lead to high blood sugar levels due to overindulging in sweet treats. She said “Add ingredients such as almonds to traditional sweets. Thanks to this, the sweets will not only be delicious, but also increase their nutritional value. Almonds are rich in essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber, magnesium and some essential vitamins and minerals. Eating a handful of almonds daily can help reduce the impact of carbohydrate-rich foods consumed with them on your blood sugar levels, which can positively impact fasting insulin levels. By making wise food choices, you can add splendor to your festive celebrations this Navratri.”

Festivals are also a time when everyone wants to look their best, which is why Dr. Madhumitha Krishnan, an Ayurvedic expert, recommends eating healthy and nutritious foods like almonds. “According to Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani texts, almonds are excellent for skin health and can improve skin radiance. Adding almonds to your holiday meals and snacks is a simple way to support your overall well-being. Almonds are incredibly versatile and can be eaten in a variety of forms – soaked, natural or roasted, with or without skin – while remaining highly nutritious. Additionally, almonds help moisturize body tissues, support the nervous system, increase strength, improve skin tone, increase muscle mass and help excrete excess kapha.

Similarly, Dr. Geetika Mittal, skin specialist and cosmetologist, emphasizes the importance of including almonds in your diet to help achieve glowing and healthy skin. “Festivals are a time to dress up, look your best and feel great, which is why it’s so important to choose foods that nourish your body. I recommend including natural products such as almonds in your diet. These powerful nuts are rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, healthy fats and antioxidants that can improve the health and glow of your skin. In fact, eating almonds daily can help improve your skin’s texture and support its resistance to UVB light. This Navratri, add almonds to your festive meals and snacks for a beautiful glow from within.”

Shriya Saran, a South Indian actress, said that Navratri is one of her favorite festivals of the year as it is a time to enjoy delicious food and spend time with family and friends. She said “Navratri brings my entire family together and we love celebrating with special meals. As an actress, I love indulging in pleasures this holiday season, but I also have to be careful about what I eat. Therefore, it is worth including in my diet not only tasty, but also nutritious products such as almonds. In fact, almonds are my favorite snack all year round and I always carry them with me, especially when I go on long shoots – nuts help keep weight and hunger under control.”

This Navratri, focus on spending quality time with your close friends and family by enjoying delicious and nutritious meals and snacks by adding a handful of almonds. Thanks to this, you will be able to celebrate joyfully and healthily.