If you’ve ever found yourself holding back at a dawat, eyeing that glorious plate of biryani but telling yourself “Nope, rice is banned!” — then Dietitian Fareeha Jay has something you need to hear.

In a recent Facebook post, she shared a quick but powerful tip inspired by a real Eid moment. Someone asked her, “I haven’t had rice in almost three months — can I eat three plates today?” Her response? Of course you can – maybe just not three heaping plates at once!
Fareeha pointed out how diet culture has robbed so many small joys from our lives. We’ve been made to fear entire food groups, rice being one of the biggest “villains,” especially in desi households. But in reality, rice isn’t the problem. Overdoing it is.
It’s All About Portion Control
The food item is a staple in many cultures and provides fiber, energy-giving carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Paired with protein and veggies, it can be part of a healthy, balanced meal. What matters is portion control — a small bowl to satisfy your cravings will prevent the kind of deprivation that often leads to overeating later.
So instead of starving yourself and dreaming of biryani at 2 AM, serve yourself a small portion, enjoy every bite, and move on guilt-free. There’s no need to completely cut rice out of your life — just be mindful of how much ends up on your plate.
So friends, go ahead — say yes to biryani, pulao, and even a little zarda. Just remember: it isn’t canceled. The all-or-nothing mindset is.

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