Guilt-free Diwali: Hyderabad youth choose mindful eating over excessive alcohol, food

Hyderabad: As India enters its festive season, marked by traditional sweets and rich dishes, an increasing number of young people are redefining how they celebrate.

For many in the new generation, festivals are no longer an excuse to abandon health goals. Instead, they’re embracing a balanced approach, celebrating while making healthier food and lifestyle choices.

“Festivals don’t have to mean overindulgence,” says Aditya Tunk Rao, a 27-year-old fitness enthusiast from Hyderabad. “I look forward to celebrations, but I still want to feel good afterwards. I’ve learned to enjoy without going overboard, and that makes the festival more enjoyable for me.”

Mindful eating and healthier choices

Mindful eating has become a key strategy for young people looking to navigate the festivities.

Many are opting for baked or air-fried snacks and substituting refined sugar with natural sweeteners like jaggery in traditional sweets. These changes reflect a shift in preferences toward lighter, healthier options.

Nutritionist Dr Leela Menon noted, “There is a noticeable trend among the youth to focus on ingredient quality and cooking methods. Young people are increasingly conscious about avoiding processed sugars and choosing options that won’t compromise their fitness goals.”

Staying active during festivities

Festivals, once seen as a time to take a break from exercise, are now inspiring new ways to stay active. Instead of skipping workouts, young people are finding opportunities to move during celebrations. Festive dancing, walks with family and even short morning routines are helping them stay on track.

“Dancing at parties is my favourite way to burn calories while having fun,” shared 25-year-old student Ravi Patel. “It’s amazing how much energy you can expend just by dancing, and it feels like part of the celebration rather than a chore.”

Hydration and portion control

Another popular approach this season is a focus on hydration and portion control.

Many young celebrants are adopting these techniques to manage their intake of festive treats. Drinking plenty of water, along with herbal teas, has helped many stay energised without overindulging.

“Hydration is key, especially with all the sweets around,” says Naina Mehta, a 23-year-old who follows a strict health regimen. “I keep a bottle of water or herbal tea close, so I’m not constantly snacking.”

Moderation in alcohol consumption

Alongside food, moderation in alcohol consumption has also become a priority. Younger celebrants are opting for lighter options, avoiding high-calorie cocktails, and alternating alcoholic drinks with water to maintain balance.

Nutritionist Dr Menon said, “There is a noticeable awareness around alcohol intake among young people today. They’re mindful that moderation is essential to staying healthy and avoiding post-festival sluggishness.”

The rise of probiotic foods for digestion

To maintain digestive health, the new generation is incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and fermented vegetables into their diets. These foods help balance gut health and reduce the bloating often associated with rich festive meals.

“Festivals can sometimes disrupt digestion, so I add probiotic foods to my diet during this time,” said Riya Shah, a 26-year-old yoga instructor. “It makes a difference in how I feel the next day.”

Embracing a guilt-free festive season

The trend toward mindful, guilt-free celebrations has been gaining traction across social media platforms, where fitness influencers encourage their followers to make healthier choices. This shift signals a broader trend as the youth redefine what it means to celebrate—one where health and enjoyment coexist.

“Celebrating doesn’t have to mean compromising on health,” said Dr Menon. “This mindset shift among young people is inspiring. They’re showing that with mindful habits, festivals can be a time for both joy and wellness.”