- Right Bite shares tips to maximise the health benefits of Ramadan fasting
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, May 18, 2014: As the holy month of Ramadan is drawing to a near, we find ourselves getting ready for this blessed month. Fasting is one of the most important aspects of Ramadan. During this period, fasting happens daily between dawn and dusk as individuals have to completely abstain from any food and beverage.
Typically, there are two main meals that we consume during this month; the suhour meal (which happens just before sunrise) and theiftar meal (which is the meal we eat after sunset) with at least 1 – 2 healthy snacks in between.
For this special month, Right Bite, known for being a pioneer in customised healthy meal deliveries, offers nutritious Iftar and Suhour packages to help you achieve a healthy and safe Ramadan fasting. As with their regular packages, Right Bite's Ramadan programs are also tailored-fit to a customer's dietary requirements to ensure the same maximum health benefits.
Experts agree that fasting during Ramadan is actually good for your health, but only if done correctly. Apart from developing self-discipline, fasting allows you to manage your eating habits, setting the path for you to lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
To ensure getting the maximum health benefits of Ramadan fasting, Right Bite dietitian Nadine Tayara shares some expert tips: “Even when fasting, it is vital that we provide our bodies with all the essential nutrients we need, while preventing any health concerns such as dehydration and constipation. There are several benefits to a healthy fast during Ramadan, for instance it allows us to adopt a healthier lifestyle whereby with fasting we begin to appreciate the value of food, as well as control our appetite and thirst; it is also a form of cleanse or detox and may aid in weight loss, if needed.”
Nadine explained, “Our bodies typically enter into a fasting state at least eight hours after our last food or beverage; and so to avoid the breakdown of muscle which may happen while fasting, it is important for our meals and snacks to be wholesome, well-balanced thus providing adequate amounts of calories and food items from all the main food groups (grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and dairy) as well as enough fluids to keep us well hydrated.”
Following a healthy fast can be good for your well-being. Here are a few Right Bite recommendations to keep in mind during Ramadan:
1. When breaking your fast, remember to start slowly! Rehydrate your body with water and some dried fruits, such as dates, apricots or figs, to restore your body's blood sugar levels.
2. Enjoy two nutritious and well-balanced meals (iftar and suhour) including complex carbohydrates, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats with snacks in between. Avoid fried and fatty foods. Choose healthy cooking methods such as grilling, baking, broiling, steaming or poaching.
3. Choose more often foods that are rich in fiber such as dark green leafy vegetables, fruits with edible skin and complex carbohydrates like whole-grain breads, brown rice, quinoa, lentils, chickpeas and beans. Fiber is known to delay the absorption of sugar thus allowing you to feel fuller and more energetic throughout the day.
4. Limit your intake of food items that are made of refined carbohydrates, in addition to foods that are highly processed and contain large amounts of fats, sugar and salt.
5. As part of your meal plan, always include a source of low-fat, plain flavored dairy product such as milk, laban or yogurt for both Suhour and Iftar as they are rich sources of calcium.
6. As a treat, enjoy a small portion of dessert on occasion! Aim to replace your sweet-tooth cravings with fresh fruits or traditional oriental sweets such asatayef that are baked and not fried and remember to go easy on the syrup!
7. Practice portion control! Try not to overeat at iftar and suhour as this may lead to indigestion and possible weight gain.
8. Quench your thirst with water! Drink plenty of water between iftar and suhour to prevent dehydration while on fast; unless otherwise advised by your physician.
9. Prior to the start of the holy month of Ramadan, gradually start reducing your intake of caffeinated beverages. Limit or avoid drinks such as coffee, tea, soft drinks and energy drinks as caffeine may have a mild diuretic effect.
10. Though we might feel tired during this month and at times, feel low on energy, it's important to try to maintain an active lifestyle so enjoy simple brisk walks at least three times a week! Always consult with your physician prior to starting any exercise routine.
The Right Bite Nutrition Centre is located in the heart of Dubai, with telephone numbers +971 4 3388763 and +971 4 3425208. It also operates in Abu Dhabi, with a satellite office located at The American Surgecenter, 26th Street, Villa 408, Al Rawdah Area, telephone number +9712 4430909.
www.right-bite.com
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