Ramadan is a very important time in the Islamic calendar, where Muslims fast throughout the daylight hours. Fasting is broken at sunset by iftar. Before the sun rises, those who are fasting also eat a suhoor meal.
Fasting is an exercise in self-restraint and is intended to remind people of those less fortunate and to give those who observe the fast a chance to detoxify the body and mind. It gives people the opportunity to focus on their faith.
There are some exceptions from fasting. For example, children, the elderly, anyone who is sick and pregnant ladies can be exempted.
Planning to fast for Ramadan 2022? There are some important things to keep in mind. Here are some six Ramadan healthy fasting tips.
Have a healthy and filling suhoor
Eat complex carbs including whole grains and protein, which are slower digesting and help maintain energy levels.
Avoid simple sugars
Skip refined sugar and flour. They’ll give you a temporary energy boost – followed by an energy crash.
Eat protein
Select protein over carbs – be it plant or animal-based. It takes more time to break down in the body than carbs and provides a longer-lasting energy source.
Ditch fried foods
Fried foods aren’t the healthiest of choices to begin with. A top Ramadan healthy fasting tip is to opt for healthy fats for longer lasting energy and to keep you fuller for longer.
Drink plenty of water
Drinking water is always an important health tip, and it is also specifically one of the top Ramadan healthy fasting tips. After breaking your fast, drink water regularly to compensate for the hydration you didn’t get while fasting. Combine with foods rich in water: cucumbers, leafy greens, watermelon and tomatoes.
Limit your caffeine
Fasting causes dehydration. It’s a good idea to take a break from tea or coffee as it will increase water loss in the body.
For everything you need to know about Ramadan in Riyadh click here.