Is fasting effective for weight loss in the Indian context?

Fasting can lead to temporary weight loss, but it may also result in unhealthy eating patterns afterward, especially in India where rich, carbohydrate-heavy foods are often consumed post-fasting. It's essential to focus on balanced meals and portion control rather than relying solely on fasting for weight management.

What are the common side effects of fasting that I should be aware of?

Common side effects of fasting include increased cravings, irritability, and potential overeating when breaking the fast. In India, where traditional meals are often high in carbohydrates and fats, this can lead to poor food choices after fasting.

How can I manage cravings after fasting, especially with Indian snacks available?

To manage cravings post-fasting, opt for healthier Indian snacks like roasted chana or fruit chaat instead of fried items like samosas or pakoras. Staying hydrated and consuming protein-rich foods can also help curb cravings effectively.

Are there any specific foods I should avoid after fasting in India?

After fasting, it's best to avoid heavy, greasy foods like biryani or deep-fried snacks, as they can lead to digestive issues and excessive calorie intake. Instead, focus on lighter options like khichdi or dal with vegetables to ease your body back into regular eating.

Flip Side of Fasting | NutriMantra

Flip Side of Fasting

Published on December 17, 2012 | Updated on March 22, 2026 | Shruti Marjara Kushwaha | Nutritionist

Most of us would have observed fast at least once in our lifetime; be it for religious purposes or for losing those extra kilos. The ones who have a strong will power are able to pass with flying colours and those like me just pray for the day to pass. There have been lots of debates on the benefits and side effects of fasting. Those with the for school of thought suggest the cleansing benefits of fasting along with the relaxation of the intestines. The against school of thought argues that deprivation could lead to cravings, resulting in higher damage. Which school of thought do you belong to?

A recent study I came across made me quite happy as it gave me one more reason to steer clear from fasting.

A small gist of the study...

Aner Tal (postdoctoral research associate) and his colleagues from the Cornell Food and Brand Lab, New York, conducted the study on 128 students from Cornell University. They randomly divided the students into two groups. They prohibited one group from eating or drinking after 6 p.m. the day before collecting data. The other group had permission to eat normally. On the day of data collection, all students were offered a buffet lunch including rolls, French fries, chicken, cheese, carrots and green beans. Using the video footage (as students were video recorded during lunch), the researchers recorded which foods the students had first and in what quantities.

Out of 40 students from the fasting group, 30 (75%) ate rolls, French fries, chicken or cheese, as against 20 (55%) of 45 from the non-fasting group. Researchers also observed that those who pursued fasting; ended up eating extra of whatever foods they chose to eat, at their first meal post fasting. The study though cannot comment on the food choices of these students (those who observed fasting) as to why they took more interest in carbohydrates and proteins. It might be related to cravings developed because of long periods of fasting.

The study has not worked on any adverse effects of fasting on our body. It only discusses the wrong food choices a person tends to make after the period of fasting.

Author's take

These food choices not only depend on cravings post fasting; it also depends on the will power of the person and the availability of high-calorie foods. Stock your kitchen with healthy foods always; especially when you plan to observe a fast as you would need to watch out what you eat after breaking it... Fasting is beneficial if followed properly if you prefer not to eat the foods in the picture :) and if you don't have any physiological condition that contraindicates it.

Pic Courtesy: cookwithkhushi.com