With the temperature soaring up to 50 degree Centigrade in some parts of the UAE, it would be wise for those fasting to keep themselves well hydrated.
Though it is somewhat of a challenge to to drink large amounts of water after Iftar, it is important to do so to keep your body functioning normally. Normally, you are required to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day during the hot and humid weather but as that is not possible during Ramadan, you need to compensate for it after Iftar and before Suhour by drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods.
“Vegetables are high in water content, specially salad greens such as lettuce,” says Yasmine Haddad, senior dietician at Live’ly, a health and nutrition lounge in Dubai. But the problem is people usually ignore lettuce as part of their salads due to its low vitamin content. However not only is lettuce rich in fibre, it is also very filling and high in water content.
Haddad also suggests you eat a wide variety of juicy fruits, from watermelon to mangoes. Fruits not only provide you with a burst of energy they also help you top up the shortage of water. Watermelon, for instance, is mostly water and sugar and packed with magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium and can hydrate you more effectively than water.
The classic Middle Eastern dip Baba Ghanoush, is another food that is rich in water, says the dietician. The dip, made with eggplant which is lightly grilled with crushed walnuts, tiny bell pepper slices and pomegranate, is an ideal hydrating food which is rich in fibre and omega-6 oils.
She also highly recommends soups as they not only replace the fluids lost and hydrate the body cells, but also prepare the digestive system for the main meal in the night.
A diet lacking in fibre and water could lead to sluggish digestive system, she warns. She also recommends that you:
* Walk briskly for at least 30 minutes after a light iftar.
* Eat dried fruits and raw nuts instead of desserts. Avoid sweets at Sohour that can cause an imbalance in your insulin levels leading to hunger and sugar cravings during the day.
* Eat moderately, chew properly and stay away from fruit juices and fried foods, to avoid bloating and gas.
