Ganesh Utsav is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, and like most festivals, it brings with it an array of delicious sweets and festive foods. Indians love indulging in these treats, which are often loaded with sugar, extra calories, and fats. While enjoying these delicacies is a big part of the celebration, the post-festival period is a critical time to focus on detoxifying the body. Nutritionist Aman Puri and founder of Steadfast Nutrition, shares why detoxing after festivals is essential and how to do it effectively.Festivals often lead to excessive consumption of high-calorie foods that can cause weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and increased cholesterol levels. Puri emphasises that detoxing after such indulgences helps the body eliminate toxins and restore balance. “Detoxifying is essentially about cleansing the body. It can be supported by adjusting your diet and making lifestyle changes that not only help cleanse the body but also boost health, immunity, and support weight loss,” he explains.Here are some key tips to detoxify your body and restore nutrition after the festivities:Stay HydratedDrinking plenty of water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to detox. Regular hydration helps the body flush out toxins, regulate temperature, and improve kidney and liver function. "Water supports the liver in filtering toxins and helps the kidneys eliminate them through urine," says Puri. Opt for detox drinks like lemon-mint water, fennel (saunf) water, or ginger-infused water instead of sugary or carbonated beverages.Choose Homemade FoodsHome-cooked meals are healthier alternatives to restaurant food, which can be laden with excessive fats, calories, and preservatives. Homemade food is not only more hygienic but also helps in maintaining better nutrient balance. “Outside foods are usually loaded with extra sugar, salt, and preservatives that can derail your detox efforts. Stick to simple, nutritious homemade meals,” advises Puri.Cut Down on SugarsAfter indulging in festive sweets, cutting down on sugar is crucial for detoxification. Puri recommends opting for natural sweeteners like jaggery, honey, or dates over white sugar to maintain calorie balance. For those battling sugar cravings, he suggests, “Choose sweet fruits like mango, pear, or watermelon over bakery products. And if you’re craving chocolate, go for dark chocolate in moderation.”Include Fresh Fruits & VegetablesFruits and vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help detoxify the body and keep you feeling full. Including fresh vegetable juices or fruit juices with pulp can be a healthier alternative to sugary drinks. “Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that prevent diseases and help in the body’s natural detoxification process,” Puri notes.Exercise RegularlyDetoxification isn’t just about food; regular exercise plays a vital role too. “Exercise increases blood circulation and oxygenation, which helps in the detoxification process. The body eliminates toxins through sweat, and physical activity helps burn extra calories gained during the festival,” explains Puri.Detoxing after a festival like Ganesh Utsav is essential for restoring your health and ensuring that your indulgence doesn’t have long-term consequences on your body. By making simple dietary changes, staying hydrated, and incorporating regular exercise, you can effectively detoxify and rejuvenate your body.