JAKARTA - Who would have thought that this small snack that is always a "guest star" for Eid is equivalent to one main meal. Nastar, which is usually eaten without counting, is now in the spotlight after a surprising statement from the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Budi Gunadi Sadikin.
Through his social media, the Minister of Health explained that the assumption that three pieces of nastar are equivalent to one plate of rice is not just a myth. According to him, the number of calories in three pieces of nastar can indeed be equated with one serving of white rice.
The 61-year-old described the habits of people when eating Lebaran cakes. Many people tend not to eat only one, but take several times until they unconsciously consume a lot.
"One seed is usually not enough, people tend to take it again and again until they stop when they are finished," he said, quoted from a video uploaded to the @bgsadikin Instagram account on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
The Minister of Health explained that if someone consumes about ten nastar fruits, the number of calories can equal one complete meal consisting of rice, lauk, and vegetables. This means that without realizing it, this small snack can provide a large enough energy intake, equivalent to one main meal.
The Minister of Health reminded that this condition could have an impact on body weight, especially after fasting during Ramadan. Weight loss that has been achieved for one month can quickly return in just a short time, if the eating pattern is not maintained during Lebaran.
"Weight loss during fasting can come back quickly if it is not controlled," he explained.
Interestingly, the Minister of Health highlights the difference in the satiety effect between main meals and cookies. A full plate of rice generally provides a long-lasting sense of fullness, while nastar, although high in calories, does not necessarily provide the same satiety effect. It is not impossible that someone wants to continue to increase the amount eaten.
However, this does not mean that Lebaran cakes must be completely avoided. He still allows people to enjoy it, provided that it is in reasonable amounts. The Minister of Health recommends that the consumption of dry cakes, including nastar, be limited to about three pieces per day so as not to be excessive.
In the end, maintaining a diet after Ramadan is an important thing. Efforts that have been made during fasting should not disappear just because of an uncontrolled eating pattern during Lebaran. By regulating portions and still paying attention to food intake, people can still enjoy the atmosphere of the holiday without having to sacrifice health.
Nastar is tempting, but excessive consumption can have an impact on the body. Therefore, the key is balance. Enjoy the food in moderation without being excessive so that the moments of togetherness remain enjoyable and the body is maintained.
The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by the AI. So there may still be inaccuracies in translating, please always see Indonesian as our main language. (system supported by DigitalSiber.id)
