Navratri Theme: Muscle Building Diet for Navratri

Navratri is an Indian festival that is celebrated over a span of nine days. The festival is celebrated to rejoice and remind everyone of goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasur. Most of the Indian population pay homage to goddess Durga by fasting for these 9 days. If you are into fitness and wish to keep a fast during Navratri, then we are here to help you choose some of the nutrient rich foods that will help you gain muscles.

Are you into muscle building? Then this article is a must read for both bodybuilding for beginners as well as for professionals.

Here are some of the best muscle building food items that can be included in your Navratri diet plan:  

1. Peanuts

Peanuts are the best fasting and bodybuilding foods that not only satiate your hunger but are also highly nutritious. Consuming 100g of peanuts can provide your body with 567 calories which include 25.80 g of protein, 49.24 g of fat and 16.13 g of carbohydrate.  

2.Chickpeas

Chickpeas are excellent for muscle building due to their nutritional benefits. You can consume 100gms of chickpeas daily during your Navratri fast, and your body will receive about 8 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fibers, 3 grams of protein and 12% of the daily recommended dosage of folate. These foods will help in providing your body with the much-needed energy to sustain a whole day of hard work.

3. Milk

A glass full of low-fat milk (about 100ml) contains about 3.9g of protein and various other micronutrients that can help you get the required energy to do muscle building workouts. You can mix whey protein powders along with milk to increase its nutritional value and get the desired body in a short span.  

4. Rajgira/ Amaranth

Amaranth or rajgira is one among many nutritious foods that you can consume during Navratri. It is highly rich in protein, which makes rajgira one of the best foods for muscle gain. Consuming 246 grams of amaranth can provide your body with around 251 calories which include 9.3 grams of protein, 46 grams of carbs, 5.2 grams of fat along with other vital nutrients. 

5. Makhana/ Lotus seeds/ Fox nuts

We have all eaten makhanas during fasting, but do you know why it is so important? Well, about 100 grams of makhana/ lotus seeds can provide your body with 347 calories of energy, which will help in improving your stamina and performance. These foods are great for muscle growth and development as it provides your body with around 9.7 grams of proteins and 14.5 grams of fibre. Along with macronutrients, makhanas are also an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.

6. Green Moong

About 100 grams of green moong (soaked in water overnight) can provide you with around 8 grams of protein and 8 grams of fibers. Green moong is the best food for fasting and should be included in your muscle gain diet plan.  

7. Sweet potatoes/ Shakarkand

If you want to follow a lean muscle diet plan during this Navratri, then do not forget to add some shakarkand or sweet potatoes to your meal. By consuming 100gms of sweet potatoes, you can get 1.6 grams of protein along with vitamin A, phosphorus and other vital nutrients.

Conclusion: All types of foods that we have mentioned have a lot of health benefits. However, if you have any health problems, then we would suggest you consult a nutritionist before committing to a nine day Navratri fast. Stay happy, healthy and blessed.