5 Tips to Enjoy a Healthy Ramadan

Every year over 1 billion Muslims around the world celebrate Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

Ramadan is a time to reflect, feel more connected to faith and is a time for purification for the body & mind. One element to achieve this is the practice of fasting or refraining from eating during daylight hours which averages of 14–15 hours each day.

Fasting is an honourable act and to support the body and mind during this time we have put together some tips to minimise hunger, thirst, and exhaustion.

Because the body depends on stored carbohydrates and fat to provide energy throughout the day it is important to consider what foods to consume and which to avoid.

5 Tips to Enjoy a Healthy Ramadan

1. Drink plenty of water – The body needs 1.5 – 2L of water every day for optimal functioning. The best time to drink is before breaking the fast. Water is the best source of hydration. Avoid drinks high in sugar and calories.
   
   
2. Don’t rush when eating – Eat slowly and regularly to avoid over eating. Eating in a rush can cause gastric upsets, so it is best to eat frequent, smaller and healthy meals.
   
   
3. Do mild exercise - Early during the fasting period, fatigue is likely to be most prominent. A walk after sunset and before sunrise is best.
   
   
4. Avoid salty and fatty foods - Heavy meals that contain lots of saturated fat, sodium and sugar should be avoided whenever possible
   
   
5. Consume a lean, low GI diet – grilled lean meats, steamed green vegetables and healthy carbs such as wholemeal products are giving long lasting energy and support a healthy digestion. Honey is part of a low GI diet and Manuka Honey has many great benefits during fasting.

How can Manuka honey benefit you during Ramadan?

Manuka Honey is categorised as a food low GI food. It is slowly digested and highly absorbed, which causes a slower yet steady rise in blood sugar levels. This helps creating a greater feeling of fullness and provide longer lasting energy during the day.

To find out more about how honey helps stay healthy during Ramadan, read this article: Staying Healthy During Ramadan

There are many delicious sweet foods consumed during Ramadan. Replacing sugar with pure, organic Manuka Honey helps retain the sweetness, add that extra layer of delicious earthy flavour and creates a healthier version of your favourite dessert.

A whole month of fasting and performing different religious activities might be challenging. However, Ramadan is an excellent opportunity for many people to change their lifestyles and orient themselves toward healthier diets, such as replacing refined sugar with Manuka Honey.

For some healthy Ramadan Recipes, read our article: 5 Healthy Manuka Honey Recipes this Ramadan

Did you know that Manuka Honey is not only considered a healthy food to support the body and mind during Ramadan? It is also a very thoughtful and unique gift for friends and family for Ramadan breakfast as well as a beautiful and unique gift for Eid.

View our full range of special, authentic and halal Manuka honeys, straight from New Zealand.