Gaining weight during Ramadan is an issue that most people face, fasting or not, especially when you head out for Iftar. There are plenty of offerings around the region and homes, and those Iftar invites come faster than you can say no (and it’s rude to refuse an Iftar invite anyway). So how do you avoid the famous Ramadan weight gain?

For those still not in the know, Iftar – a fast-breaking meal – is a daily ritual during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Yet with long days and the searing heat of summer, it’s no surprise that after going an average of 15 hours with no food or water, most people give into the desire to feast. This year, the nice (and maybe weight conscious) folks over at Jumeirah Restaurants have decided to educate us on why we should take advantage of the fresh and healthy produce that provide the energy necessary for the priorities of daily life without inducing a food coma, or have that annoying Ramadan weight gain we are all trying to brush off.

Healthier Options if you Want to Avoid Ramadan Weight Gain

Raw Fruits

As per tradition, those fasting around the world will break their fast with dates. High in sugar, protein and Vitamin C. They are also easily digested meaning they are a quick source of energy and nutrients. If dates aren’t your thing, opt for raw fruits instead, which contain a high percentage of water content and will also provide said nutrients and energy. Just avoid citrus fruits at first, as they may feel too acidic in your stomach. Other options can include dried apricots and dates, mixed seasonal berries with honey and ginger dip and green papaya salad with tomato, apple and cashew nuts. All of which you can find at Flow Dubai.

DON’T MISS: Healthy Ways to Sweeten up your Ramadan

Raw and Cooked Vegetables

Sources of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and other substances, are still important for your five-a-day during Ramadan (and for keeping that Ramadan weight gain at bay). Go organic where possible to avoid any nasty pesticides, herbicides, and hormones. On the other hand, green leafy vegetables will be easy on the stomach and packed with nutrients. What’s more, your veggies are low in fat, so you can ease that conscious without counting calories. Try crudités with a choice of cauliflower, hummus dip or beetroot hummus dip or vegetable spring rolls with sweet chili sauce, or spinach spelt and diced vegetable soup among others (you get the drill).

Lean Protein

After a 10-minute break post breaking the fast, the main course awaits. Always opt for a lean source of protein to guarantee less after-meal discomfort, and to feed your muscles (for those brave souls continuing to exercise!). Always a critical component of a healthy eating plan, opt for turkey, skinless chicken breasts and select beef cuts such as round steak or top sirloin to ensure minimal fat content.

Seafood

From saltwater and freshwater fish to deep water shellfish, seafood is nutrient-rich and serves as a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Not only that, but oily fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, too, or the ‘good fats’, which fights against a number of common diseases. Counting calories? Opt for white-fleshed fish such as cod or sea bass – both light but a treat for the tastebuds! If you have no idea where to get a serving of these sea creatures, you can pop in at Trattoria Toscana and enjoy a serving of their Grigliata Mista di Mare – grilled mix seafood platter with Canadian lobster, tiger prawns, sea scallops, and calamari. Also, a plate of Branzino ai Ferri su Caponata di Verdure – grilled Mediterranean sea bass with vegetables caponata, pine nuts and black olives will do you good.

Complex Carbohydrates

From barley and quinoa to wholemeal pasta, brown rice and oats, not all carbs are created equal. Sources of healthy fiber, minerals, vitamins and enzymes, complex carbohydrates could actually be your body’s best friend and are an ideal way to add substance to a meal after a long day of fasting. What’s more, they take longer to digest so will keep you fuller for longer and help prevent overeating. It’s a win-win! If you are unsure what to go for, try a serving of Khao Phad Phak – vegetable fried rice, pineapple, spring onion, tomato and soya sauce at Pai Thai. I’m quite sure this will keep the munchies at bay.

After all is said and done, we still have our fingers crossed (at least me, myself and I) that the Ramadan weight gain bug will not hit me. But I can’t guarantee it. Just remember to stay away from the temptations of the buffet if you hope to break your fast and not your scale this Ramadan.

xoxo