Sabudana, known also as tapioca pearls, is indeed primarily a source of carbohydrates, with very minimal protein content. So, in terms of your nutritional intake, it’s not going to significantly contribute to your protein goals. Sabudana is favored in fasting meals mainly for its quick energy release, which can provide a much-needed boost. You’re right in noticing it’s a popular choice, especially in navaratri diets, but for protein, you’ll want to turn elsewhere.
Since you mentioned adding peanuts to your sabudana upma, that’s a solid approach. Peanuts do provide a good amount of protein and healthy fats, which can help bolster the meal. In Siddha-Ayurvedic terms, peanuts can help balance vata dosha, which may support your energy levels. To further enrich your protein intake, consider other additions like roasted chickpeas or even tofu and paneer, if your constitution allows.
For someone with a nighttime work schedule experiencing energy crashes, maintaining steady blood sugar levels with high-protein snacks can be very helpful. A combination of foods like nuts, seeds, and a bit of dairy could sustain energy better than sabudana alone. Additionally, be mindful of your agni—ensuring it’s strong will help with overall nutrient absorption.
Experiment by preparing snacks you can include throughout your shift, such as protein-rich smoothies or oats mixed with seeds. You might also try including lentils in soups or cooked dishes outside of your sabudana meals to up your protein game without major changes to routine. Your approach with timing and balance in line with dosha could help in transitioning to this dietary shift smoothly.
