At the festival of Navratri, devotees are immersed in devotion to Maa Durga. This festival, which lasts for nine days, not only has spiritual and religious significance, but it also gives an opportunity to refresh the body and mind. However, during the fast, many people reduce drinking water or stop completely. Doing so can be dangerous for health. Based on the latest research and advice of doctors, we are telling you that what problems can be done by not drinking water for a long time in Navratri fast and how can they be avoided?

Problems caused by not drinking water for a long time

Doctors say that water is the most important part of our body. It not only keeps us hydrated, but also keeps the functioning of digestion, skin and brain right. If you do not drink water for a long time during Navratri, then there can be many types of health problems.

1. Dehydration (water scarcity): The most common problem of not drinking water for a long time is dehydration. According to Dr. Divya Malik, Senior Consultant of Dietics and Nutrition Department at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Delhi, many people observe Nirjala fast during Navratri, which leads to lack of water and electrolytes in the body. This causes problems like fatigue, dizziness and lethargy. Vomiting and diarrhea can also occur in severe cases. According to the study published in The Journal of Nutrition during 2024, the brain function can be reduced only if there is a deficiency of 2-3% water in the body. This makes it difficult to focus. Also, problems like mood swings and headache can occur.

2. Digestive problems: Not drinking water for a long time has a bad effect on the digestive system. According to the expert, people often eat heavy foods like sago, kuttu flour or potato during the fast, but drink less water. This can cause constipation, gas, and acidity problems. According to a research published in American Journal of Gastroenterology (2025), lack of water can cause intestinal stool, which increases constipation complaints.

3. Imbalance of blood sugar: Drinking water in fasting can be more dangerous for diabetes patients. Actually, during the fast, blood sugar level can fall suddenly by staying hungry for a long time and not drinking water. At the same time, if you eat sweet to break the fast, then the sugar level can also increase suddenly. According to the publishing study in the journal Diabetes Care in 2024, dehydration affects insulin sensitivity, which makes it difficult to control blood sugar in diabetes patients. Diabetes patients should not observe Nirjala fast without doctor’s advice.

4. Bad effect on skin: The effect of water scarcity is also visible on the skin. Drinking less water during fasting can make the skin dry, lips can burst and wrinkles on the skin start appearing quickly. According to a study published in Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2025), drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily keeps the skin moisture and helps in collagen production.

5. Pressure on kidney: Not drinking water for a long time also affects the kidney. Lack of water reduces the amount of urine, which increases the risk of accumulation of toxins in the kidney. This can cause urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney stone problems.

Also read: PM Modi Work Routine: 4 times CM and 3 times PM Narendra Modi did not take a single holiday, what does it affect on health?

Disclaimer: This information is based on the opinion of research studies and experts. Do not consider it an alternative to medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, consult your doctor or concerned specialist.

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