The auspicious festival of Navratri has officially arrived in 2026, and several devotees will be observing fasts as well. However, shifting suddenly from your regular meals to only fruits or fasting food can shock your body if not done right. Whether you are doing full upvas or partial fasting, your eating routine changes drastically.

Things To Know Before Fasting During Navratri

Before you start your Navratri 2026 fast, here are seven things you must know.

1. Do not go on an empty stomach

There are usually three types of fast: Nirjala, which means no water; Phalahar, where you only eat fruits; and partial fast, where you can take one meal, usually at night, along with farali. Going completely on an empty stomach can cause harm. It is suggested that doing phalhar and partial fasting will be more beneficial.

2. Avoid Too Oily Food During Vrat

Sometimes, vrat food can also be unhealthy, like aloo chips and have a lot of oil. Choose roasted makhana or boiled sweet potato instead to have a healthier fasting.

3. Hydrate

Dehydration can cause headaches during a fast, so make sure to drink at least 3 litres of water. It can include coconut water, lemon water and non-salted buttermilk too.

4. Missing Protein

It may be possible that your fasting food has zero protein and it can make you feel tired. Add paneer, peanuts, curd or milk as it will keep you more full and energetic.

5. Do Not Break Your Fast With Heavy Food

Opening fast with heavy food like fried puri and cold drink shocks stomach. Start with simple things like fruit and water and have a light meal after 30 mins. Eat small meals every 3-4 hours instead of one big meal.

6. Do Not Fast If Unwell

Not everyone should fast if you are already unwell. Diabetic patients and people on BP medicines should consult a doctor before fasting. If you feel dizzy, palpitations or low sugar, break fast immediately.

7. Sleep Is Important

Try to get at least six hours of sleep if you are fasting. Less food along with even lesser sleep will make you feel weak.
It is important to follow traditions, but it is also important to keep yourself healthy. A smart fast will detox you and give you more energy instead of draining you.