No doubt fasting during Ramadan has enormous psychological, spiritual, and physical advantages. If done correctly, fasting has numerous other health advantages, such as removing toxins, weight loss, and even improved mental well-being. But if you don’t take precautions, limiting your food and liquid consumption can also have a harmful effect due to the intense heat in the UAE, which can result in heartburn, constipation, dehydration, irritation, lack of concentration, weight loss, or weight increase.

Here are the best strategies to stay healthy and strong while fasting as Ramadan gets underway.

Positive impacts of fasting on health and well-being

• Regulates bad cholesterol: By fasting, many people hope to shed weight. A recent study found that fasting had an impact on lipid profiles. Reduced blood cholesterol, as a result, can help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other illnesses.
• Curbed appetite: Your digestive system has a chance to unwind while your body adjusts to eating less, and your stomach progressively gets smaller. Your hunger decreases and the results may stay longer than with many trendy diets.
• A month-long detox: Your body naturally detoxifies due to the digestive system’s month-long overhaul, enabling you to maintain a healthy lifestyle after Ramadan.
• Boosted mood and mental clarity: According to studies, fasting can also increase the brain’s resistance to stress and adaptability to change, mood, memory, and even learning ability.

How to maintain health and wellness during fasting month?

Millions of Muslims worldwide observe fasting throughout the holy month of Ramadan as a significant religious practice. While fasting has many spiritual and physical advantages, it is crucial to stay healthy and well throughout this time. Here are some suggestions to keep you strong and healthy throughout the fasting month:

1. Dates should be your first course: Dates are a significant source of sugar that might help you regain the energy you lost throughout the prolonged fasting period.
2. End your fast gradually: Start with dates, and water, followed by soup, a bowl of salad, and then the main meal. If you feel full after the salad, take a break and can continue your meal later. 
3. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink enough water after you break your fast, so you don’t feel thirsty or have any signs of dehydration.
4. Include all food groups into your meal: A source of grains, proteins, veggies, fruits, and healthy oils should be included in your Iftar.
5. Make healthy food choices: Avoid fried food and food high in fats. Choose whole grains, lean meat, chicken breast, fish, olive oil in moderation, and whole fruits instead of juices. 
6. Avoid salty and sugary food: To avoid consuming too many calories, indulge and enjoy the tasty and creative delights with your family while always practicing portion control and moderation. You will become thirstier if you consume salty, spicy, or processed food.
7. Divide your meals: Divide the main course into three parts. This will ensure that you have a healthy balanced meal.
8. Avoid caffeine: Try and reduce caffeine consumption two weeks before Ramadan.
9. Exercise: Adding exercise to your daily routine is beneficial. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle will help you stay in shape.