As the holy month of Ramadan is only less than a week away we realised that we should speak about the best foods to eat at Iftar. For those of you who do not know what iftar is it is the meal that Muslims break their fast with which takes place after the sunset. And then will eat before dawn which is called suhoor and this is that they’re ready for their next fast. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset every day in this holy month.
By following guidelines and a specific diet It will help you lose weight and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. However, if you over-eat in iftar or suhoor it can cause weight gain. and other possible health risks. Ramadan is seen as a month of learning self-control, self-discipline and empathy for less fortunate people. It is encouraged that Muslims should maintain these qualities etc outside of Ramadan.
Recommendations To Help You’re Fast Going As Easy As Possible
You should drink plenty of water and eat hydrating foods between iftar and suhoor other than the obvious by drinking lots of water you could include in your meal hydrating foods such as watermelon, cucumber or tomato. Ideally avoiding caffeinated drinks such as coffee tea and some fizzy drinks and is so that these barely are hydrating and they can increase going to the urinate.
Replenish Your Energy Levels By Eating A Healthy, Balanced Iftar & Suhoor
Eating three dates to break your fast is traditional as well as being a healthy way to begin your iftar as they are a great source of fibre. You should incorporate plenty of vegetables to provide vital nutrients and vitamins. Choose whole grains which provide the body with energy and fibre, enjoy grilled or baked lean meat, skinless chicken and fish to get a good portion of protein. In general, you should try to avoid fried and processed foods high in fat or sugar. Enjoy your meal and avoid overeating by eating slowly.
Suhoor is the light or heavy meal ( depending on what kind of eater you are) before the beginning of the fast every day. This applies especially to special groups such as older people, adolescents, pregnant women and nursing mothers. This meal should contain a light breakfast, needs to include vegetables, a serving of carbohydrates such as bread/bread roll made from wholewheat, protein-rich food such as dairy products (cheese that is not salty/labane/milk) and/or egg, as well as a tehina/avocado side dish
- Avoid too many sweet dishes/ sweets after your iftar meal. Sweet dishes and treats commonly eaten during Ramadan contain large amounts of sugar syrup. The recommended sweet for consumption is cold water-containing fruit, such as watermelon/melon or any other seasonal fruit, such as peach or nectarine.
- One should try to avoid the consumption of foods rich in fat, especially fatty meats, foods made with puff pastry, or pastry with added margarine, butter, fat or ghee. Rather than frying, it is recommended to use other methods of cooking, such as steaming, cooking in the sauce, stir-frying in a small amount of oil and baking.
- Avoid foods containing large amounts of salt, e.g. sausages, processed and salted meat and fish products, olives and pickles, snack foods, salty cheeses, various types of ready-made crackers, salads, spreads and sauces (such as mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup). When preparing the meal, it is recommended to avoid the use of salt as far as possible, and of course, it is recommended to remove the salt shaker from the table. Use various herbs to enhance the flavour of foods being cooked.
- Eat slowly, and in amounts appropriate to the needs of each individual. Big meals cause heartburn and discomfort.
- Try to move as much as possible and to be active in the evenings, for example, by going for a regular daily walk.
To help you prepare for Ramadan you could purchase our foods from us! We have a large selection to cover whatever you need this month! We have Indian/Asian foods as well as having everyday groceries . We are based in London and surrounding areas.