As the minarets of mosques signal the daily fast be broken, Iftar is taken as a mix of traditional and often lovingly prepared foods.

Eating during Ramadan can be a little challenging as hunger at the end of a long hot day after fasting can be a powerful driver to overeat. Starting with three dates to boost energy, water for rehydrating, and a soup provides a gentle lead-in before taking the mixed meal of main dishes.

It is advisable to avoid over salty foods during the month as it upsets the electrolyte balance and intensifies dehydration during the day.

Fatty food choices should also be minimized as the opportunity to exercise is reduced and weight gain can be more of an issue if every day becomes a veritable feast of delicious foods taken with good company.

Keep in mind normal eating patterns such as three variable sized meals based on nutrient dense vegetables, protein, good fats such as oily fish, olive oil, coconut oil, dairy, eggs, and avocados form the base foods, and carbohydrates are taken to balance energy needs and add a little energy. Excess bread, rice and sweets will sabotage a healthy meal.

Because of the need to relax and sleep, it may work better to make the meal before sleep a fresh light salad or fruits and yoghurt and the breakfast at dawn a good protein hit such as an egg omelet with vegetables and tea. Since the spiritual rebuilding month of Ramadan is followed with rigorous formality, it is wise to keep delicious sweet treats associated with celebrations to a minimum rather than cut them out completely.

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JTS