Eshanka Wahi
15-Oct-2025
Your healthy diwali snacking guide just got upgraded!
Inputs by: Eshanka Wahi, culinary nutritionist, wellness coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Eat Clean with Eshanka
You’re wandering through the aisles of supermarkets and grocery stores, torn between tossing that irresistible festive snack into your cart or reaching for the healthier alternative.
Been there, done that! The festive season is all about joy, celebration, family reunions, and indulgent food. And while treating yourself is part of the fun, a little mindful planning and smart grocery shopping can help you enjoy a healthy, guilt-free festive season. The secret lies in making smart food choices right from your grocery list—so you can celebrate without compromising on wellness.
Here are some tips to help you stock up smarter this festive season.
1. Natural Sweeteners
Sugar is the main ingredient in holiday treats, but it is also the leading cause of weariness, weight gain, and inflammation. Fortunately, there are some healthier alternatives such as dates, date paste, jaggery (gur), and figs. Also, honey or coconut sugar are less processed alternatives to white sugar. Stevia and monk fruit sweeteners are zero-calorie solutions for persons who are trying to lose weight or manage their diabetes.
2. Whole Grains
For festive baked items use whole wheat flour instead of refined flour (maida).
Ragi, bajra, jowar, and foxtail millet are all smart choices for making laddoos, dosas, and even kheer. For pulao and festive banquets, use brown or red rice rather than polished white rice.
3. Protein-Rich Foods
Protein is essential for maintaining steady energy levels, supporting muscular health, and avoiding overeating. Add pulses, lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, paneer, greek yogurts, nuts and seeds to your grocery list
4. Healthy Cooking Oils
Switch to better fats; stock up on oils like olive oil, mustard oil, coconut oil, or groundnut oil. Ghee, rich in vitamins A, D, and E, is considered auspicious in festival cuisine. Healthy fats not only increase satiety but also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
5. Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables
Seasonal fruits and vegetables can add colours and nutrition to your buffet. These are high in antioxidants, which help the body detox naturally after festival indulgences. Stock up on fruits like pomegranates, oranges and apples to make desserts. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and carrots can be used in roasted foods or halwas. Leafy greens such as spinach, methi, and kale help to balance out heavier meals.
(In image: Eshanka Wahi)
6. Mindful Snack Alternatives
You can make your festive snacking guilt-free with roasted makhana that are light, crisp, and packed with nutrition. Trail mixes are a combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for rapid eating. Air-popped popcorn is also a low-calorie celebratory snack.
7. Hydration Essentials
To stay hydrated and fresh, stock up on herbal teas such as chamomile, tulsi, and peppermint. Keep coconut water or buttermilk nearby for natural hydration. Infuse water jars with lemon, mint, and cucumber.
Festivals bring joy, not guilt. Smart grocery shopping allows you and your family to enjoy the festival without compromising your health.
Cover Credits: Freepik
