Rice is prohibited while observing Ekadashi Fasting and this is pure science and good for health. But why
is rice not eaten on Ekadashi. The story of Ekadasi in Hinduism is associated
with Bhagavan annihilating Demon Mura.
It is believed that demon Mura found a dwelling place in the
rice and a young woman appeared from Bhagavan Vishnu to annihilate Mura on Ekadashi
tithi.
Therefore, devotees who fast on the Ekadashi day avoid food
made from rice.
In fact, all grains and pulses are avoided on the day.
Now, why did our ancient Rishis start Ekadashi fasting, it is purely for good health. It has been proved now that intermittent fasting helps in cleansing our body. Avoiding all kinds of carbohydrates once in fortnight means your body will be learning to not rely on glucose alone. Body burns up excess fat for energy.
But the most importantly it is the cleansing process. Ekadashi fasting helps in both physical cleansing and internal cleansing of the mind and our thoughts. It is deliberate pause to our digestive system once in every fifteen days which helps us to recuperate.
It must be noted here that Shiva worshippers have Pradosh or Shiva Chaturdashi fasting which also occurs once in a fortnight.
Ancient Hindus gave prime importance to fasting once in a fortnight for good health. To get this message to all people it was included as a religious fasting.