Yes, maintaining dietary purity is important for the sanctity of the ritual. On the day of Shradh, and ideally during the entire Pitru Paksha, if you are here for that period:
Strict Vegetarianism: Absolutely avoid all meat, fish, poultry, and eggs.
Avoid Tamasic/Rajasic Foods: Refrain from consuming onion, garlic, brinjal (eggplant), masoor dal (red lentils), and excessively spicy or oily foods. These are believed to cloud the mind and generate negative energy.
Avoid Stale Food: Offerings and food consumed should be freshly prepared. Leftover food is considered impure.
Alcohol and Tobacco: These are strictly prohibited.
Many devout individuals observe a fast until the Shradh rituals are completed, often eating only one simple meal later in the day. Following these helps maintain the required Sattvic (pure) state of body and mind
