{
  "id": 18454471,
  "title": "Diwali 2026: The Three-Item Plate Rule Experts Swear By For Festive Feasting",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/diwali-2026-the-three-item-plate-rule-experts-swear-by-for-festive",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-06T06:02:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Press Journal",
    "slug": "free-press-journal",
    "url": "https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/diwali-2026-the-three-item-plate-rule-experts-swear-by-for-festive-feasting"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Diwali 2026 is a time for festivities, family get-togethers and, of course, indulging in delicious traditional food. While the season offers a plethora of mouthwatering dishes, maintaining a balanced diet can be a challenge. The three-item plate rule is a popular strategy that helps celebrate festive feasting without compromising on health. Senior nutritionist Jinal Shah emphasizes that the rule is not about eliminating favorite sweets or snacks, but enjoying them mindfully by choosing the right items.\n\nTo begin with, choose homemade sweets over packaged ones, and go for traditional over fusion varieties. Opt for one type of sweet per day and savor it with complete joy and no guilt. The three-item plate rule suggests limiting the amount of food on your plate to three items at a time, refilling only when there is room in your stomach. The timing of meals is also important; it's advisable to eat a little later than usual, and if it's been more than three hours past your regular mealtime, have a banana or dal rice before the feast. Always remember to eat before indulging in drinks.\n\nDr. Dattatray Solanke, a gastroenterologist, cautions against overindulging in festive food. He advises moderation, suggesting that excessive sweets, fried and fatty dishes, or alcohol can lead to discomfort, bloating, acid reflux, and even impact gut health. Sugary drinks and fizzy beverages can also upset the stomach, especially for those sensitive to certain sugars or carbonation. It's essential to listen to your body and notice which foods may cause you discomfort. By practicing mindful eating, choosing the right foods, and maintaining a balanced diet, you can enjoy the celebrations without harming your digestive system.",
  "summary": "Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. The festival is a time for celebrations, family gatherings and, of course, indulging in delicious festive food. From crispy samosas and kachoris to sweets like laddoos, barfis and jalebis, the festive season brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy traditional delicacies. However, with several celebrations and elaborate meals lined up,…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}