A guide for the holy period of Ramadan

Ramadan is a month-long fasting practice taken on by Muslims to bring them closer to God. They believe that fasting allows them the chance to boost their own self-respect, increase their prayer time, and also to help others. That is done through increased charity work and good deeds. It is estimated that there are over 1.6 Million Muslims around the world that could potentially practice this tradition all at the same time. The fasting starts at the break of dawn until sunset.

This practice, however, can have certain effects on the human body. Fatigue and dehydration are among the few things to vary while fasting. This Pacific Prime Dubai article will outline the way both Muslims and non-muslims can remain healthy during this auspicious time.

Tips for Muslims to stay healthy during Ramadan

Water

One of the most important things for the human body is to stay hydrated. Ramadan participants should not drink water during sunlight, however, it is still important to drink 8-12 cups a day. This means drinking enough water before the break of dawn to help maintain the level of thirst during daylight. On top of that, caffeine should be avoided during the period of Ramadan as it is a direct cause of dehydration.

Your pre-dawn meal

This is considered as breakfast during the period of Ramadan. It is essential that your pre-dawn meal is heavy and consists of the right types of nutrients. The right types of nutrients, in this case, are complex carbohydrates, and foods rich in fiber and protein. This meal will be the main source of energy for your body for the rest of the day.

Your post-sunset meal

The post-dawn meal comes once the sun is down and at this point, the majority of Ramadan participants will no doubt be extremely hungry. However, to ensure that you have a healthy Ramadan, do not overeat and avoid fatty foods.

Avoiding heavy physical activity during Ramadan

During the period of fasting the human body does not have the fuel to undertake heavy physical activity. Therefore it is advised that participants should avoid playing sports and working out during the fasting period. However, if heavy physical activity is unavoidable, then it advised partaking in the physical activity after you have had your post-sunset meal.

Tips for non-Muslims to stay healthy during Ramadan

Be Respectful

Everyone has the right to practice their religion the way they want, therefore don’t go around judging people practicing Ramadan. It is fine for you to eat, it is even fine to eat in front of your Muslims friends, however, don’t taunt them while you are enjoying your food. Respect their practice, and should the opportunity arise, help them get through the day.

Joining the practice

If you want to experience Ramadan for yourself, there is no problem in joining your friends in the practice Non-muslims can also choose to fast for only a few days, rather than a whole month. If you do plan on joining the practice, it is important to be respectful and try your best to meet the goals you have set for yourself.

You should also be wary of what you do and don’t eat. For example, drinking caffeine would be a bad idea as caffeine causes dehydration. Another type of food that one should avoid would be those with high-fat content, as fatty food can cause fatigue, thus leading to the urge to consume caffeine.

Be wary when driving

Food is fuel to the human body; not having enough of it can deprive some of our senses. Therefore, during this period, one should be wary when driving as other drivers could be experiencing things like blurry vision, dizziness, or even fatigue. On top of that, not being able to eat anything after dawn means some drivers may not be feeling fully awake. The best way to travel during this time would there be via public transport.

Patience is key

For those not practicing Ramadan, it is vital that you are patient with those that are practicing. It is important that you help those practicing through their day rather than agitating them in any way.

Free Medical Checkup

Monitor your health throughout Ramadan to make sure everything is okay. This period of time can take a toll on your body so it is best to ensure it is in full health. People can now get a health check-up for free at several UAE medical centers, such as the following:

• UniCare Medical Center
  • Madina Mall
  • Mankhool Road
  • Burjuman Mall
• Valiant Clinic

Focus on your health during Ramadan

Ramadan brings forward a time to reflect on your life and spirituality, and on top of that it is also a period that allows you to focus on your health. However having to work hard during this time without eating can take its toll on your body, therefore having comprehensive health insurance can ease your health worries, and allow you to have a peaceful Ramadan. Contact our expert health insurance advisors at Pacific Prime Dubai today for some priceless advice and a free quote to go with it.

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Karoon

Content Creator at Pacific Prime Dubai

Karoon is a content creator who strives to represent Pacific Prime's goal of simplifying insurance.

An enthusiastic writer and a core part of our team of health insurance experts, Karoon tackles every topic with the aim to make it as informative and simple as possible.

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