Ramadan health tip: Lighten up that iftar

A heavy iftar meal can strain the digestive system and cause unnecessary bloating and headaches.

Instead, try to make that iftar meal light and varied, along with being consumed slowly.

Food groups

Experts tell you to try and mix and match your iftar plate, with a healthy mix of protein, fibre, grains and vegetables.

If you can, incorporate dairy or alternatives, depending on your food tolerance levels.

Also consider, switching to brown rice or pasta for a healthier alternative,

Cook healthy

Lay off the oil and grease if possible and make baking your new hobby.

That spinach fatayer or the sambousek will just taste just as good when baked in an oven, as opposed to deep fried.

When cooking those veggies, try to refrain from prolonged cooking where nutrients can be lost. Steaming them is a great alternative, while that broccoli or that carrot still retains that fresh crunch at that first bite.

Sip on this

Make soups your new best friends.

Lentil is traditionally a favourite during the Ramadan meal, but mix things up a tad daily with your favourite chicken recipe or a clear Minestrone for iftar.

The nutrients in your meal also boosts your health and immunity.

Eat in check

The temptation to gorge after a meal is high after breaking the fast.

However, the calories that come with the food binge are difficult to drop off.

Keep those portions in check and eat slowly. You may realise that after that soup and salad, your appetite for that third piece of chicken serving may have diminished.

Courtesy: du

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