What are some healthy Diwali sweet options?

Try baked or steamed sweets like sandesh, kheer made with low-fat milk and stevia, or dry fruit laddoos without sugar syrup. Use nuts, oats, and seeds to add natural flavor and nutrients.

Can sugar-free sweets be taken freely?

No. Sugar-free doesn’t mean “calorie-free.” Many contain fats and refined flour that can still raise blood sugar and weight. Keep portions small.

What foods should be minimised or avoided?

Avoid deep-fried items (chakli, karanji, sev, puran poli) and syrupy sweets (gulab jamun, jalebi). Reduce sweetened beverages, fruit juices, and soft drinks. These cause sharp glucose spikes.

How can meal timing. be maintained during the festive season?

Stick to regular timings. If attending a late dinner, take a small snack beforehand (like a fruit or handful of nuts) to prevent overeating later.

What are some healthy Diwali snacks for diabetics?

Roasted chana, puffed rice (murmura chivda), unsalted nuts, sprouts salad, roasted soya, or baked khakra are great choices tasty yet low in oil.

How can portion control be practiced during parties?

Use small plates, avoid second helpings, and serve yourself instead of allowing others to fill your plate. Remember: taste everything, finish nothing.

How can physical activity be maintained during Diwali?

Try to get 30 minutes of brisk walking daily. If busy, walk after meals, climb stairs, or dance during gatherings -movement keeps blood glucose in check.

Can fasting during festive days be harmful?

Yes, if done improperly. Skipping meals and then overeating later can cause dangerous sugar fluctuations. If fasting, take small low-carb meals at intervals and stay hydrated.

How important is hydration during Diwali?

Very. Adequate water intake (2-3 liters/day) helps flush toxins and maintain glucose balance. Avoid sugary or carbonated drinks – plain water or lemon water is best.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.