Ways To Stay Hydrated In Ramadan

Ramadan 2017 is here. Muslims all over the world will fast from dawn to dusk to perform this religious obligation. Apart from being a religious obligation, fasting has many proven health benefits. Since Ramadan 2017 has arrived during the peak summer month this time, it is very important to stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is not just about drinking a gallon of water (pun intended). It is about making smart eating choices too. We have compiled a list of things that will help you stay hydrated in Ramadan.

Stay Hydrated In Ramadan

Drink 10-12 Glasses of Water

To ensure your body receives all the hydration it needs, make sure you drink 10-12 glasses of water from dusk to dawn. If you find it hard to keep track of your water intake, download a health application to help you with it. If this is not what you prefer to do, buy a 2-litre jug and make it a goal to empty it by sehri (meal consumed before fasting). However, try to spread your water intake throughout the night. Do not break your fast by downing many glasses of water as this will fill you up and you won’t be able to eat during iftar (evening meal to break the fast).

Also Read: It’s High Time You Start Drinking More Water

Increase Your Intake Of Fruits and Vegetables

Try to increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables during the holy month of Ramadan. Fresh fruits and vegetables are full of essential vitamins and minerals. Apart from that, a lot of fruits and vegetables have a high water content. In addition to that, fruits are a good source of naturally occurring sugars like fructose. After fasting, some people’s blood sugar often goes down. This is why it is recommended to break your fast with dates. Eating fruits will reenergize you after a long day of fast.

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Avoid Salty, Spicy Food

Try to stay away from salty and spicy food during sehri. This is because salty and spicy food will make you feel thirsty throughout the day. Avoid dousing your food with spices and salt during Ramadan. Eat lightly seasoned food during this month. Also, avoid overcooking your food as this takes away all the important nutrients from your food.

Also Read: Bad Health Habits That You Think Are Healthy For You

Eat Yogurt For Sehri

Yogurt is a great source of calcium. Apart from that, a bowl of yogurt will also keep you hydrated throughout the day. It is said that if you eat yogurt at sehri, you will not feel thirsty throughout the day. So if you want to stay hydrated in Ramadan, make it a habit to have a bowl of yogurt for sehri. Another good idea is to make lassi which is made by combining yogurt, milk, water, and sugar. Lassi is a very popular drink In Pakistan. People especially like to drink lassi during the hot summer months as it is very refreshing.

Also Read: Foods That Give You Quick Energy

Stay Away From Fizzy Drinks

I think we all are guilty of this. We have all dreamt of a chilled cola can during our fast. The image of cola is just too enticing when shown on tv adverts during the month of Ramadan. I don’t think I have to state the obvious: colas are very unhealthy. They are full of sugar. They are bad for your teeth. They are bad for you. Having a cola regularly during Ramadan is one of the worst mistakes you can make. Diet versions ar no good either. Stay away from colas during Ramadan. In fact, stay away from colas your whole life. Instead of colas, opt for healthy drinks like fresh juices, shakes, smoothies, lassi or lemonade. When making lassi or lemonade, avoid using a lot of sugar. A better idea is to swap sugar with natural ingredients like honey.

Also Read: All You Need To Know About Gluten Free Diet

Stay Away From Fried Food

Every Ramadan we make a resolution to stay away from fried snacks but somehow they make a way to land on your plate. Fried food is a disaster. It is full of sugar. Most fried foods are usually made from refined white flour (maida) which has zero nutritional value. After a long day of fast, you do not want to pump yourself with something like this. Fried foods also make you feel bloated and make you feel so full that you end up reducing your intake of water. This Ramadan, make good on your promise of avoiding fried foods. If you need some more motivation, remember fried food is bad for your skin and waistline both. If you want to look slim and fresh-faced on Eid, fried food is a no go territory.

Also Read: Drink Your Way To Better Health

Ramadan teaches us patience and empathy. Ramadan is not just about wondering what you will have for Iftar and Sehri, it is about reforming yourself. This Ramadan, plan your meals in advance and focus more on helping other. Make sure you stay hydrated in Ramadan otherwise you will feel low.

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How do you stay hydrated in Ramadan? Share with us in the comments below!

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