Staying healthy during Ramadan will help re-energize you and improve your performance as you perform your daily duties. Fasting accompanied by healthy habits will also help detoxify your body and aid weight loss.
Are you wondering how you can maintain your health this holy month? Not to worry, we have some handy tips to stay healthy during Ramadan for you.
Stay hydrated:
The body will still need as much water as it requires during the fasting month. Ensure you minimize dehydration risk by taking at least 8-12 cups of water between suhoor and iftar. You can make it easier by always carrying a handy bottle of water. In addition, take less of other fluids like coffee or tea and prioritize drinking water.
Don’t miss suhoor or iftar:
Suhoor allows you to take meals that energize and hydrate your body. A well-balanced suhoor meal contains complex carbohydrates like brown rice, proteins like eggs and high-fibre foods like vegetables. Ensure you eat at iftar, too, to compensate your body for the stress of fasting during the day.
Move your body:
Although fasting can be physically exhausting, you mustn’t stay sedentary for long periods. Take short walks or a few stretches to maintain your energy. You can also postpone your workout to after iftar hours or early before suhoor. Keep your workout light and low impact; the goal is to keep your body active and fit.
Eat healthy meals:
Eat healthy meals during fasting so you can keep staying healthy during Ramadan. Whether it is at suhoor or iftar, ensure you take meals that are rightly proportioned. Similarly, avoid sugary foods as they burn easily and add little nutrients to your body. You should also reduce the amount of salt and oil used to prepare your meals.
Break your fast slowly:
It is easy to want to indulge your appetite when you eat during fasting. However, the key to staying healthy during Ramadan is to eat mindfully and slowly so you don’t overburden your body. Break your fast with water and fruits like dates. Give your body time to digest the meals. Eat foods that keep you fuller, like whole grains.
Make fruits your companion:
As you cut down on highly processed meals, replace them with fruits, especially ones with high water content. Plenty of fresh fruits will add the necessary nutrients for your body and keep you hydrated. You can also make soups from vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, etc.
Take enough rest:
Sleep is as essential to staying healthy during Ramadan as your food intake. Don’t hesitate to take breaks when you are feeling stressed. In addition, sleep for the recommended 8 hours, and if that is not possible, find time to rest during the day.
Although Ramadan is only for a month, it is still essential that we stay healthy as always. As fasting continues, daily activities also carry on as usual. Therefore, it is necessary to remember that though Ramadan has many activities, staying healthy is paramount.
