Al Ain: Abu Dhabi Health Services’ (Seha) experts warn people who are fasting to refrain from overeating as it could lead to severe health problems.
Overeating, following a 15-hour-long fast, is common and doctors always advise people to eat nutritious and easy to digest food in proper quantities.
“Although Ramadan is a month of exercising self-restraint, some habits such as excessive eating after iftar, which is against the very principle of the holy month, may lead to severe health problems,” said Dr Mouza Al Kuwaiti, Health Education Committee Chair of Seha’s Ambulatory Healthcare Services (AHS).
Promoting a healthy lifestyle and creating awareness about common health issues during Ramadan are important priorities for AHS in its preparations for the month, said Dr Mouza, who is also manager of Oud Al Touba Clinic in Al Ain. People who suffer from chronic diseases or take medication may need to take additional precautions, she added.
The AHS is running a series of free public health initiatives until July 19 at Al Jimi Mall. An experienced medical team comprising a physician, dietician and two nurses are offering complementary screening for blood pressure, weight, height and glucose levels at AHS kiosks. The dedicated AHS kiosks are also promoting health awareness through talks by experts and hand-outs.
As Ramadan falls during one of the hottest months of the year, she said there is a need to enhance people’s understanding about the lifestyle changes and proper eating habits during the fasting month to help them cope with any health disorders such as dehydration, variation in blood sugar levels or blood pressure.
Dr Mouza said that through its Ramadan awareness drive, the AHS aims to reach out to the general public and provide them with useful tips and free health screening services to help them stay fit during the month.
