Ramadan is considered to be the holiest month in the religion of Islam. All Muslims observing Ramadan (or Ramazan) swing back and forth between fasting and feasting. They keep a fast from sunrise to sunset. Globally, all Muslims come together to participate in these age-old rituals. For them, fasting is an integral part of their lifestyle because it is one of the five pillars of Islam. The five pillars of Islam are Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (Fasting), Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). Muslims are supposed to fast in the month of Ramadan. Fasts are commonly known as ‘Rozas' in the Islamic religion.
Suhoor and Iftaar are the names of the two meals that Muslims eat during the month of Ramadan. Suhoor is supposed to be eaten before sunrise. After that, not a single piece of food or a drop of water can enter the mouth of the person who's fasting. This makes the first meal known as Suhoor, the most important meal of the day. What enters your mouth should be able to sustain you for the entire day. The food should be able to provide all the essential nutrients so that one can sail smoothly through the day without indulging in any meals. These essential nutrients will give the human body enough stamina to starve for the entire day. So, it is important to make the right choice when it comes to Suhoor. People can choose from a myriad of dishes.
Ramadan 2024: Here are a few foods for Suhoor that will help in staying hydrated and energised throughout the day:
1. Eggs
They are filled with tons of protein. They are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Eating eggs will leave you feeling full. There are many ways in which one can eat eggs. You can make a heavy vegetable omelette and pair it with brown bread. You can also make scrambled eggs and put them on brown bread, which is already coated with peanut butter or almond butter. You can store hard-boiled eggs for the week and then mix them with a salad.
Also Read: Scrambled Eggs Recipe
2. Oatmeal
A protein-rich meal will have not just one but many benefits. A protein-rich meal gives you ample energy. Oatmeal is an appetising source of proteins and carbohydrates. You can make an oatmeal smoothie which includes bananas and milk. This will make it tastier and flavoursome. You can also choose to add nuts. Customise the dish in such a way that it tastes delicious and is fulfilling.
Ramadan 2024:This delicious bowl of oats and berries can satisfy anyone's hunger
3. Fish/Chicken
Fish is known as a vitality-boosting food. Try not to fry the fish because that might lead to bloating. Fried food is a big no-no. It's simply because it can make you thirstier. Since, water is off limits during the fast, it is important to avoid any food which has the probability of making you thirsty later. Chicken possesses energy yielding nutrients which will make it easier for someone who's fasting, to function throughout the day. One can pair chicken with vegetables. If you are eating fish then you can opt for sardines.
4. Fruits and Vegetables
They are rich in minerals and vitamins that help one feel energised. Also, apart from just drinking water, one needs to eat fruits and vegetables which will help them in staying hydrated. Some examples would be watermelon, strawberries, peaches, oranges, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, spinach, and celery. You can make a salad which will bring together several fruits and vegetables. With this, you can enjoy the healthful benefits all at once.
Also Read: Low-Calorie Foods: Try These Delicious Low-Calorie Salads And Dressings For Weight Loss
5. Nuts
This nature's gift is known to make people full with just a small quantity. If you pair nuts with hot milk then that would become a wholesome combination because dairy products are also very fulfilling. You can also add nuts to yogurt. If you want to pair it up with bread then you can use nut butter. Almond butter and peanut butter will give you energy as well as leave you feeling full for a longer time.
Remember that while gorging on food, if you take your time while chewing and give full attention to the food then you will feel full for a longer period of time. Make sure you don't indulge in any other activity while eating, otherwise, your brain might not register it well and you could start feeling hungry during the daytime.