As Ramadan falls this year during the searing heat of the summer, you need to follow adequate precautions to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Walid Hazem, nutrition expert, says that although many people believe that fasting leads to low energy levels and loss of strength, fasting is an opportunity to kick your metabolism into high gear and lose some extra pounds.
Here are some common mistakes you need to avoid during Ramadan:
-Stopping exercise:
Never stop working out during Ramadan. It doesn’t have to be a hardcore exercise regime, but a moderate workout will make a substantial difference with resetting your metabolism. A brisk walk for at least 10 minutes is a good start, then add more minutes if your physical fitness level allows it. Add more movement to your daily routine. For example, climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator, or go for a leisurely cycling trip.
-Drinking large quantities of water all at once before fasting:
Water is an indispensable factor in preventing dehydration. However, try not to drink a lot of water before fasting (at dawn) or during the meals. Instead, the water intake should be divided along the non-fasting hours. Two litres is the perfect amount to make you feel more full, while removing harmful toxins from your body.
-Breaking your fast with a cigarette:
Smoking a cigarette before eating is an unhealthy way to break your fast, as it could cause dyspepsia and heartburn. Also, soup or other fluids is the best appetizer instead of a sudden intake of food. Follow a step-by-step healthy eating regime to give your digestive system a rest before the main meal.
-Consuming too much food too soon:
Don’t fill your belly with too much food after breaking your fast, trying to compensate for what you didn’t eat during the day. This is the main reason behind most people gaining weight during Ramadan, besides making you feel lazy to get on your feet and exercise. Also, it is what you eat that plays a crucial role in your fitness and even in your strength to carry on during the next day of fasting. While it is tempting to have a meal filled with sugary or saturated fat items, try to keep the proper balance with more protein and fiber-rich foods, including vegetables and fruit. Additionally, stick to eating at regular intervals for losing weight in a healthy manner.
-Sleep deprivation:
Most people tend to sleep few hours at night during Ramadan to stay awake till sohoor at dawn. Never underestimate the benefits of sleeping for an adequate number of hours, especially at night. Short nights could weaken your immune system, consequently making you feel weaker in the morning and killing your motivation to work efficiently and exercise. If you adopt the above-mentioned tips, you won’t feel hungry during the day, even if you sleep prior to the timing of the dawn (fajr) prayer.
