Ramadan is a month of devotion and self-discipline, which demands a nutrient-rich diet that maintains your health and endurance levels. This is a strenuous fast in the summer months, lasting for over 13 hours on the longest days. This year's fasting has arrived at the time of hottest days of the year and therefore, it is necessary to eat healthy as Ramadan is both fasting and feasting.
Here are some tips which you can use in your holy days to reap full benefits of your fasting –
Don’t overeat at Iftar:
We understand how it feels to eat after a long day of fasting and usually, people indulge in overeating. However, overeating can negatively impact your body as it is the last thing your body wants after a day of fasting from food and water. While it may seem like a good idea at the time, overeating will leave you feeling bloated, and lethargic. Instead, split your meals into smaller portions and have the rest later. Just remember to eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and avoid drinking water during meals.
Eat right at Suhoor:
Eating the right kind of food at Suhoor can carry forward your day comparatively with much easy and without much hunger pangs. This meal should comprise of complex carbs (whole wheat breads, oats), source of good quality protein (cheese, tofu) and essential fats (full-fat milk) because a meal consisting of all these three will take more time to digest.
Workout:
Ramadan should not be used as an excuse for not working out. The motto should be maintaining the current fitness levels if not improving it. It is advisable to work out before Suhoor as it will also serve as a post-workout meal replenishing your fluid levels as well as glycogen storage.
Stay hydrated:
Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor. High temperatures can also make you sweat more. It is important to drink fluids to replace what you lose throughout the day. You can also increase your water intake by eating hydrating foods. Try adding watermelon to your Suhoor meal or eat it as a sweet treat after Iftar.
Fasting during Ramadan can improve your health, but only if done in a proper manner. If not, it can cause more harm than good. It is important to have self-control when you see a good spread of appetizing meal. The key is to remember that Ramadan is a month to reap rewards and benefits and increase your spiritual connection.
Happy Fasting!