TIPS for Fasting in Ramadan

Eat suhoor just prior to dawn. Yes, it's hard to get up at that hour, which is why it has many benefits and rewards. It will help you to wake up for the Fajr prayer. The suhoor meal is Sunnah. And this morning meal is generally recognized as the single most important meal of the day. Do not overeat, though. Focus on taking in foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, fruits or vegetables, and plenty of water. For example: an egg on whole-grain toast, a few crackers with peanut butter, some orange slices, and two glasses of water.

During the hottest part of the day, stay in cool areas (indoors or in shade) and limit your physical activity. Rest if possible.

Avoid gorging yourself when breaking the fast at sunset. Follow the Sunnah: break your fast with dates and either milk, water, or fruit juice. After the maghrib prayer, continue with a light starter such as soup and crackers. After a long period of fasting, you need to bring your fluids and blood sugar level up without overdoing it.

During the early evening (after maghrib), have a healthy and balanced dinner. Do not overeat, and be sure to drink a few more glasses of fluids.

During the evening hours, resist the temptation to drink tea, coffee, and soda. When visiting friends or family, ask for glasses of water.

Serve yourself, your family, and guests a "dessert" of fresh fruit and nuts. There are lovely choices available in this season, and they are much more healthy than chocolates and candy.

Sip on water throughout the evening. Aim for 8 glasses by bedtime. To help you keep track, fill and refill a water bottle with a measured amount of water, and be sure to finish it.

Light exercise, such as walking for 15-20 minutes, is best done in the evening hours.

Avoid fried and spicy foods as they may cause heartburn or indigestion.

Speak to your doctor about an appropriate multi-vitamin.

Continue to brush and floss your teeth several times a day.

Wash your hands regularly, and avoid those who cough or sneeze. This is important to prevent the spread of viruses (such as seasonal flu and H1N1) and bacteria which may cause illness.

Quit smoking!

Organize your schedule so that you get enough sleep.

Few tips to prevent the feeling of thirst during your Ramadan days:

1. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids and water between Iftar and Suhour to prevent dehydration
2. Limit your intake of fried foods and foods high in fats and sugar
3. Avoid foods high in salt such as pickles, salty crackers and nuts, and canned foods
4. Try not to drink too much tea especially at Suhour as it can increase fluids lost through urination
5. Have Lassi or couple of spoons of yogurt... it will prevent you from becoming thirsty during the day.
6. Don’t overeat at the Suhour meal