What is it about?
Ramadan commemorates the revelation of the Holy Quran to the Prophet (PBUH) and the start is determined by the sight of the moon.
This holy month is considered as one of the five pillars of Islam and is dedicated to the purification of the mind and soul through fasting from sunrise to sunset.
Ramadan is the perfect occasion to be charitable and to give back to society by distributing food, volunteering or making financial donations.
Eid al Fitr marks the end of the Holy Month and is celebrated with family gatherings after the Eid prayer.
Etiquette for non-Muslims
Ramadan is a great occasion to bring people together as Iftar and Suhoor events in the region are open to everyone. We call Iftar the meal that breaks the fast after sunset and Maghrib prayer. Suhoor is the morning meal eaten before the Fajr prayer.
It is good to wish those who have been fasting ‘’Ramadan Kareem’’ (generous Ramadan) to greet them.
Keep in mind that eating or drinking in public during this month is considered a lack of respect.
People should also dress conservatively as the month of Ramadan is about modesty, respect and reflection.
How to eat smart?
It is often difficult to not binge eat after a long day of fasting. The key is to eat without adding extra calories to your diet as people tend to quickly gain weight during this month.
Since Suhoor will be the first meal of the day, proteins in the morning are essential in order to last all day. For example, hard-boiled eggs are a much healthier alternative than scrambled eggs.
Avoid fast carbs which are quickly digested but don’t give you any nutrients and rely on slow carbohydrates instead such as vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, beans and peas.
Become a healthy meat eater and always go for a lean option instead of fattier meats: the best sources of lean protein are chicken, fish, wild salmon, sardines and tenderloin steak.
Make sure to hydrate your body after a long day: avoid excessive amounts of caffeine, sodas and other sweetened drinks. Do not drink too much water too fast in order to avoid stomach upset. Vegetable soups with a little sodium or sports drinks are also a good alternative to restore fluid balance.
Lifestyle adjustments
Exercise can be a good idea after Iftar as it is not recommended to train on an empty stomach.
It is also advised to avoid sun exposure and to take naps during the day in order to rest your body.
Remember that it is not recommended to fast if you are an elderly person, diabetic, pregnant or if you suffer from any serious medical condition.
Wishing you a month of blessings, Ramadan Kareem!