All set for Deepavali? WE certainly are!
As with any Malaysian festive celebration, the focus of the Festival of Lights is arguably the delicious food! Wherever you go during Deepavali – whether an open house or a hotel marking the joyous occasion – festive dishes abound, and you’ll inevitably be drawn to them. Indian cuisine is typically balanced and healthful – but festive food is typically richer and high in calories.
But if you’re watching your weight and cholesterol, there’s no reason to undo all of your hard work just because of all the tempting food around you. We know that festive cuisine is designed to entice the senses and pique the palate, but you know that you have power over them. So, whether you’re feasting at home, attending an open house, or dining at a restaurant, we’ve got some tips to help you eat right for the upcoming festivities.
Don’t Go To A Gathering On An Empty Stomach
Going out when you’re not hungry is the easiest way to control what you eat. Have a nutritious snack to fill you up about an hour or two before your supper. Later, you’ll be more conscious of how much food is on your plate.
Chew Slowly
Savour your festive meals slowly. Many studies have shown that your desire to eat increases with speed of consumption. In addition, bloating and indigestion results from swallowing food without properly chewing it. Always chew your food for at least eight to ten minutes before swallowing it.
Keep Your Portions Small
Two things you can’t miss during Deepavali are rice and assorted meat dishes. You’ll have mutton, chicken, prawns and many other dishes all in one serving.
The trick to not getting yourself bloated is to cut down on your portions. Try having less rice and go for more dishes. By doing so, you’ll have more space to try a variety of dishes and you won’t be super full. Be sure to add veggies to your dish too.
Don’t Be Greedy
We know you’ll want to savour all the good stuff, but try not to be greedy.
A lavish buffet is generally served during Deepavali celebrations, but keep in mind that you are not the only visitor and that this is not a food-eating competition! Before you go out for your second round, try a small piece of everything and enjoy the dinner (remember, a second round is not obligatory either!).
Mind Your Dessert Limit
It’s impossible not to indulge in Indian sweets and candies, so feel free to partake in some. Nevertheless, overindulging in sweets may make you feel a little more bloated than normal. So reduce the serving sizes of your desserts and sip lots of water.
Avoid/Lower Alcohol Consumption
We know it’s probably the best time for booze – but replacing it with fruit juices and lemonade is way better. You can also go with some hot green tea or black tea, as they help cut the grease and give you better digestion.
