It's that time of the year again, deities of different sizes are adorned with colourful flowers, the smell of incense rises through the air and pujas, pundits and bells can be heard at every corner. Preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi are in full swing and you can smell strong aromas of this festival’s favourite delicacy – Modaks!

So how does this change for someone with diabetes? It simply doesn’t! You can eat small portion of modak but strictly do not overindulge in it. During festivals, especially Ganesh Chatruthi, it is advisable to monitor your blood glucose levels at regular intervals before and after consuming modaks and other sweet dishes.

As modaks are an indispensable part of this festival, let’s give this much loved mithai a healthy twist!

Mix 100ml of water, ¼ tsp of oil and a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. To this, add 10gm of powdered oats and stir briskly. Add rice flour and mix the flour with water. Once the flour mixes with the water, take this mixture off the heat and cover for 4-5 minutes. Of this dough, make small balls. Flatten one ball on your palm and place the modak filling in the center. For the modak filling, finely chop 15 grams of apple, pomegranate, pear and pineapple each and 5 grams of almonds and walnuts. Join the edges of the modak and place it in the steamer for 10-15 min. Serve hot!

You must know that every 3 modaks made with the above recipe contain 288 calories with 5.44 grams proteins and 38.48 grams carbohydrates. So there you have it, a healthy modak.

It is vital to stick to proper meal plans and exercise routine, and monitor sugar levels consistently. While this recipe is suitable for people with diabetes, it is advisable to monitor your blood sugar levels before you eat and after 2 hours of consuming your meal. One should use glucometers to test the readings and store data in order to observe patterns in fluctuations if any. Consulting with a physician/doctor is advised whenever required.

This article is validated by dietitians Geeta Shenoy (BSc - Dietitics / Nutrition, Post Graduation Diploma in Dietetics, Registered Dietician /Nutritionist, Sports Nutritionist, 29 Years Experience), Previously Geeta Shenoy was associated with S. L. Raheja Hospital, All India Institute of Diabetes.
Disclaimer: Information provided is void of any representation and warranty as to the reliability, accuracy, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy or suitability of the information provided and is not a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment for medical conditions, actions, applications of medication for personalized medical advice consult a doctor or other appropriate medical professional . Always seek advice from physician/ doctors for queries regarding any medical conditions