Ramadan is here again, promising blessings for those who turn towards God and away from our physical comfort. As we embrace the spiritual bounties of this holy month, certain practical considerations can help us stay healthy while fasting.
First, maintaining a healthy lifestyle of proper diet and exercise prepares you for a successful fast. Continuing these healthy habits during the holy month will help you prevent illness while fasting.
Fasting, when done properly, is a natural way to detoxify the body. Ramadan offers us the opportunity to move away from unhealthy eating patterns or even addictions to tobacco, caffeine, alcohol or drugs. Your healthcare provider may have advice on supplements or other nutritional support while fasting.
Healthy fasting basics:
Drinking as much water as possible and eating fruits and vegetables between sunset and the pre-dawn meal help you stay hydrated.
Including protein from meat, fish, legumes, dairy products or nuts in each meal helps keep your energy up.
For suhur, the early morning meal, eat complex carbohydrates from vegetables and minimally-processed whole grains that will keep you feeling full longer and give sustained energy through the day.
Break your fast each evening with a few dates and a glass of water to rehydrate, restore blood sugar levels and stimulate your digestion before eating a full meal.
