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🌙 Ramadan provides the perfect environment to kickstart a healthier lifestyle. It’s a month-long crash course in self-discipline that trains you to control your cravings and exercise self-restraint. So why miss the chance to stay on track? Here are some tips to stay healthy during this holy month.
#1- Let’s keep hydration levels sky high: We often bypass water for the allure of sugary drinks, but it’s time to rethink that habit— they are not the healthiest choice on the block. Make it a goal to gulp down between 8-12 cups of water between iftar and suhoor, according to Hamad Medical Corporation.
A PRO TIP: Go for lukewarm water over cold, and your body will thank you for it as it’s absorbed quicker. Oh and don’t forget to slurp up some soup too— it’s a sneaky way to sneak in extra hydration. Also load up on hydrating fruits and vegetables to help alleviate thirst throughout the day, Hamad Medical added.
#2- Break with water + dates, not kabsa: It’s not just about Sunnah, but it’s actually good for your digestion, The American Heart Association recommends. Munching on those dates tames the hunger monster, so when it comes to choosing what’s for Iftar you are not diving headfirst into the nearest fried delight. And speaking of fried goodies, try to resist the temptation of those juicy samosas and other deep-fried delicacies. Your tummy will thank you later.
#3- Stay physically active by grabbing your buddy, furry friend, or just pop in those earbuds, and hit the road for a post-iftar stroll to aid digestion and rack up those daily steps. If you’re feeling extra motivated, why not hit the gym? According to a recent study, working out before breakfast is like hitting the fast-burn button on your body fat. That’s right, you’ll torch the flab twice as fast. If muscle gain is your aim, wait two hours post-ifta and take it easy.
#4- The one you have all been waiting for: caffeine. Even Enterprise struggles with resisting caffeine, but for a healthy heart and headache-free fasting, you’ve got to cap your intake at under 400 mg of caffeine per day (about 750 ml), as advised by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).
#5- A nicotine fix never really fixed anything: Smokers already know the risks of their habit all too well, so we will spare the lecture. Just do your stomach a solid and hold off on lighting up on an empty one.
#6- Careful with the late Ramadan tent: If you really don’t want to miss out on the fun, then wrap up and head home by 11 pm for early mornings so that you are still able to squeeze in a minimum of 7 hours of sleep. We know the party might just be getting started, but trust us on this one.
#7- Fuel up with fiber for Suhoor: Fiber-rich foods are your secret weapon as they keep you feeling full for a longer time, so you will not be raiding the fridge every hour. Plus, they are like the marathon runners for snacks, take longer to munch on and pack fewer calories per bite, according to Mayo Clinic. This includes wheat grain toast, Fava beans (foul) or falafel, and oatmeal with your choice of fruits.
