Fasting in the month of Ramadan and is obligatory on all adult Muslims. Many patients and staff will be fasting or wanting to fast in Ramadan, which is expected to commence this year from 18 June 2015. It helps if NHS frontline staff is aware of, and respect this important religious obligation, and how such beliefs may affect the different elements of care. This is more important in hospitals where the services of Muslim chaplains are not available.

Please find attached document.

 

Muslims around the world will begin fasting this month, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

For Muslim families, this is a time of self-restraint and increased worship, and means dealing with the practicalities of changes in eating schedules, activities, and even sleeping times.

Fasting begins just before the break of dawn and no food or drink is allowed during the day which can be difficult for many. It can also lead to unhealthy meal choices and weight gain. 

Here are some tips to stay healthy during Ramadan…

 

  • Eat a pre-dawn meal consisting of slow-release, unrefined foods like porridge, oats or granary bread
  • Have a variety of fruit and vegetables (at least 5 portions)
  • Drink plenty of water, low-fat milk and other no added sugar drinks from sunset until sunrise to ensure adequate fluid intake
  • Eat starchy foods at each meal
  • Don’t overindulge on fried and sugary foods to break the fast or to fill up on during dinner and you’ll help yourself to avoid those common health issues caused by or associated with fasting
  • Common health complications can arise from fasting, here’s how to prevent and deal with them
  • Be sure to get moderate exercise.

 

Cooking tips:

  • Measure the amount of oil used in cooking (1 teaspoon per person in curries and stir fries)
  • Remove all visible fat and skin from meat before cooking
  • Reduce the amount of coconut oil, milk and cream used in cooking
  • Try eating more tomato-based sauces or add low-fat natural yoghurt to make a sauce creamier
  • Cut down on fried foods e.g. oily curries, greasy pastries, samosas and fried dumplings
  • Cut down on sweet desserts.

 

 

Check out this healthy Ramadan diet plan with varied and balanced meals to eat between fasts. Or for information and advice on healthy eating contact the FINE team on 01484 416883, email: fine.project@kirklees.gov.uk

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