How to avoid gaining weight during Ramadan

Fasting during Ramadan can cause weight gain in some people. And if you happen to be one of them, controlling your food intake in the evenings can help you prevent the undesirable weight gain. Consuming less food, will in turn decrease the calories consumed, allowing you to maintain or even lose your weight during this holy month.Which means that maintaining your weight and even losing some weight during Ramadan is totally achievable!

WHAT ARE THE REASONS FOR WEIGHT GAIN DURING RAMADAN?

• Eating continuously, especially between Iftar and Suhour, which is sometimes accompanied by tiredness due to the feeling of fullness.
• Inactivity and lethargy after Iftar
• Consuming large portions of food, more than the usual
• Eating fried, high fat and calories food (kunafa, katayef, pastries and samosa) in large uncontrolled amounts, especially in the evenings
• Going out for Iftar or inviting guests over which may be putting you within reach of large varieties and quantities of mouth-watering, but calorie dense food

WAYS TO EAT HEALTHY AND CONTROL WEIGHT GAIN

Here are some tips that will definitely help you in managing your weight during the fasting month

1.Avoid overeating: Have a light Iftar that includes reasonable food portions

2.Chew your food slowly to avoid indigestion

3.Have your soup and salad first; as these are low in calories and make you feel full

4.Drink at least eight glasses of water during the non-fasting hours

5.Limit the intake of sweetened fruit juices, make your own at home instead of the ready-made ones as they contain high amounts of sugar

6.Choose low fat dairy products and lean meats

7.Replace Arabic sweets with fruit salad and fresh fruits every now and then

8.Exercising is an important factor to help you burn fat. Walk every day for at least half an hour, aiming to one hour in order to burn the extra calories.

HEALTHY COOKING ALSO PLAYS A ROLE IN MANAGING YOUR WEIGHT!

When cooking, make your favourite Ramadan recipes healthier by avoiding deep frying whenever possible. Instead, reduce the amount of fat in your meals by cooking your food with a little bit of vegetable oil, baking, roasting, steaming or grilling. Keep in mind that reducing fat in your cooking does not necessarily mean reducing its flavour. You can enhance the seasoning of your dishes by using fresh vegetables, fresh herbs and spices, which add taste without adding calories.

And now, with so many tips to help you control what you eat and resist the temptation of over indulgence, you can make sure that this joyous season is happy, healthy and filled with goodness.

Besides, eating moderately, slowly and sensibly is the perfect way to – avoid getting lethargic, stay active and spend time with your family and friends. Whether it is shopping, meeting loved ones or simply watching the TV, a healthy meal will make sure that your Ramadan is filled with loving memories and a better-looking you.