Dubai: Over-indulgence during Eid can play havoc with your health. While people intend to lose extra weight in Ramadan, the reality is that for many, a moment on the lips during Eid, is a lifetime on the hips. And that can bring long-term health problems.
But there’s no need to panic - just remember to take everything in moderation. If you build healthier habits into your routine for the long-term, you can avoid the weight gain.
It’s normal to see people suffering from digestive problems caused by too much food, with the most common problem tending to be indigestion brought on by eating too much rich food.
Eid overindulgence can lead to very severe inflammation in the gullet from all the acid that comes up, and that may lead to a long-term problem.
Here are a few tips to reduce festive tummy problems:
-Go for a moderately light breakfast. Wholegrain breakfast cereals with skimmed milk and a banana or brown toast/whole wheat bread with white, low fat cheese or labneh with a sliced tomato are recommended.
-Limit portions to reduce chances of indigestion and heartburn.
-Substitute sugar with organic honey, jaggery or dates for higher nutritional value and richer taste.
-To avoid problems arising from excessive meat consumption, go for things that are relatively easier to digest.
-People with diabetes or high blood pressure must watch out for chocolate, desserts, sugary drinks and candies.
-Instead of dough-based desserts, opt for fresh fruit and desserts with fruit and milk as healthier alternatives.
-Make sure you consume plenty of vegetables, protein and carbohydrates. Eat slowly and give time for your body to digest the food.
-Drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day. Beware of consuming sugary drinks such as Tamarind and Hibiscus. Although juices, milk and soup are sources of fluids, water is the best choice.
-Avoid fried foods or those prepared with large quantities of oil. The writer is nutrition consultant & operations manager, KYP Holistic & Beauty center LLC
