The Matzah Isn't to Blame

We are on the eve of Passover, and this year I'm choosing to start on a good note and remind us of the nutritional principles we can maintain even throughout the holiday. By caring for our physical well-being, we can feel better spiritually as well—and truly experience the light of freedom that shines during this exalted holiday.

1. The rule here, which is true all year round and certainly during Passover, is to "begin with the end in mind."

2. It is advisable to eat in moderation and not reach a state of being "too full."

3. Many people feel bloated and suffer from constipation during Passover. When trying to understand why, they immediately blame the matzah. For them, it is recommended to choose matzot made from whole grain flour, like the shmura matzot.

4. For those who love eating a lot of matzah: it’s important to start with a generous serving of salad so your body feels full of real, nourishing ingredients. This helps reduce the urge to overeat matzah.

5. On the Seder night, according to Jewish law, it is customary to eat matzah equivalent to the measure of 4 olives. It is undoubtedly very filling, and therefore, there is no need to overdo the "Shulchan Oreich" with a large amount of food as usually eaten on Shabbat or a holiday, since it burdens digestion.

6. Fried Foods: Many people fry during Passover as a way to diversify their meals—preparing fried matzah balls, chips, schnitzel, and more. However, it's well known that fried foods aren’t good for the digestive system, blood vessels, and overall health. My advice: instead of frying, try baking these foods in the oven on parchment paper. This way, you won’t even need oil to prevent sticking.

7. It’s best to begin your meal with vegetables—raw, cooked, or baked. 

8. It’s always helpful to keep fruits, almonds, and raw (unroasted) nuts on hand as a healthy alternative to processed snacks. They’re also great for light nibbling between meals, helping prevent overeating at your main meals because you won’t arrive at them completely starving.

Wishing everyone a kosher, healthy, and happy Passover!

Eliahu Shechter is an iridologist and natural therapist.