10 smart diet tips to keep fit during Ramadan

Long fasting hours during Ramadan can take a toll on your body, but not if you ensure to follow a good diet.

Published: Sat 11 Jun 2016, 12:00 AM

Last updated: Sat 11 Jun 2016, 8:33 PM

Mentioned below are some quick and easy health tips to follow during Ramadan. These easy to follow diet tips will ensure your food provides your body with essential nutrition suggests Reya Pahuja, personal nutritionist.
1. Reduce intake of oil in your food as it makes you feel lazy and less energetic. For example, switch from fried chicken to grilled chicken.
2. Consume coconut water for Suhoor, as it will help maintain hydration level in your body until it is time for Iftar.
3. At the time of Iftar, it is good to break your fast with dates and milkshakes. Sugarcane juice is also good to have during Iftar as it is rich in glucose, so it acts as an immediate source of energy for all the different cells in the body.
4. Fruits are a better option than fruit juices as they are rich in fibre. Raspberry, strawberry, apple, banana and oranges are all rich in fibre. So next time, go for a fruit plate rather than opting for a fruit juice.
5. To avoid indigestion and flatulence, consume food with minimal fat and spice. For the same reason, avoid over eating. Carbonated drinks are a big no too. Buttermilk (Laban) is healthier alternate to aerated cold drinks.
6. Increase water intake after Iftar. Since between Iftar and Suhoor is the only time water can be ingested, drink water more frequently than you usually do. Two litres of water is a goal that should be met to replenish the cells in your body.
7. For Suhoor, try to include some whole-wheat food product in your diet. Whole-wheat food products take around 6-7 hours to digest and hence should help you not to feel too hungry too early.
8. For your late evening meal try to include some seafood, as most seafood's are low in fat and cholesterol and rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and Omega 3 fatty acid.
9. You can include a 'lemon shot' when breaking your fast during Iftar. It is a very simple drink that has equal amount of lime juice and water. Ideally, it should not have more than 30-50 ml of each.
10. Egg whites and Greek yoghurt are indispensable from your diet as they are packed with proteins.