How to stay hydrated during Ramadan
Water is the most important fluid that replenishes your thirst during Ramadan. Unfortunately though, most people do not drink enough but have only small amounts at Iftar and then forget to drink water until the next day!
Why do we need water?
Our body is made up of 60 to 70% of water and any reduction in your water intake can affect your body’s cells and nerves from functioning properly. It is absolutely essential to balance the loss of water in your body, because dehydration can cause undesirable side effects such as: constipation, headache, dizziness, tiredness and dry skin.
Water is the best remedy!
Unlike water, other fluids contain a lot of sugar and can result in you consuming extra calories, which is not good for one’s health. Drinking too much of the Ramadan drinks and other soft drinks will fill up your stomach and delay your digestion process. Water is the best source for our thirst and health.
Water plays a significant role in weight loss and maintenance, because it helps to get rid of toxins and reduce the feeling of hunger. This is why it is important to drink small quantities of water throughout the night.
How to prevent thirst during fasting?
The food that you eat plays a major role in controlling your thirst while you are fasting. Here are a few pointers:
- Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. If you are exercising and are outdoors in hot weather, you lose more fluids. So make sure you drink more water.
- Avoid hot and spicy dishes as it increases thirst.
- Do not add too much salt to salads and other dishes. Also avoid eating salty foods like salted fish and pickles as they increase the body’s need for water.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables because they are rich in water and fiber. They stay in the intestines for a long time and reduce thirst.
- Drink fresh fruit juices rather than sweetened juices.
- Try not to drink large quantities of water all at once or a lot during a meal. Instead drink water between your meals.
Remember:
Drinking iced water to break your fast does not replenish your thirst but can cause your blood vessels to contract and cause indigestion. For this reason, it is recommended you drink water at room temperature or slightly cold.
You need to take extra care of yourself during Ramadan as your digestive system starts working once you break your fast, so start off with a glass of water or two wait for a while and then eat or else all the food will store as fat in you and the digestive system wont process it.