During festivals, we’re all set to indulge in some delicious homemade food. Sweets are an essential part of every festival, and Indian festivals being a major celebration, often tempts us to enjoy that extra piece of mithai. And that’s perfectly fine! While we eat to nourish ourselves daily, it’s okay to treat ourselves occasionally—occasionally being the key word.

So how can we enjoy these sweets and still stay healthy?

1. Make them at home. Homemade sweets allow you to use pure ghee, which is much healthier than the store-bought versions that may contain DALDA, PRESERVATIVES, and ARTIFICIAL COLORS. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bond with your family!
2. Avoid “healthy” alternatives. A sweet is meant to be a treat, so enjoy it for what it is. When we opt for jaggery, honey, or sugar-free versions, we tend to eat more than we realize. Just enjoy the authentic sweet with real sugar—but in moderation!
3. Consume in moderation. Have a small portion as a snack rather than a large serving all at once. This helps prevent drastic blood sugar spikes (though there will still be a small increase). But remember, this doesn’t mean you should snack on sweets all day!
4. Don’t have it with your meal. Eating sweets with your meal can lead to a significant blood sugar spike because you’re also consuming carbs like rice or roti. Instead, keep your meals balanced with enough protein and fiber, and enjoy the sweets as a snack later.
5. Move more! If you’re going to be eating extra calories, you’ve got to burn them too! So move more! Help with the house cleaning, decorations, do a dance party with your family!

Enjoy the festivities while staying mindful of your health!