After a complete month of fasting for Ramadan, UAE residents may be tempted to overeat with Eid holiday celebrations just around the corner.
However, doctors warn against overindulging and encourage residents to gradually prepare their bodies for regular eating.
Dubai Health Authority’s Smart Clinic doctors took to social media to answer questions and give advice on maintaining good health after Ramadan and preparing for Eid, which is an extended celebration customarily enjoyed with a variety of sweets and juices.
“I advise people to start their Eid with a cup of tea and a healthy light breakfast to gradually prepare their body for their new eating habit after Ramadan,” Sitelbanat Makki, senior clinical dietician at Latifa Hospital, said.
In order to maintain the weight loss many experienced during Ramadan, Makki suggests drinking a cup of water before and after meals to give the feeling of fullness and continue to eat less to be satisfied. In addition, she advised that people eat generally healthy meals, be aware of portions and fill plates with vegetables, fruits and lean meats.
The sudden change in eating may cause bloating and other stomach pains. To avoid these issues, Makki recommends not sleeping immediately after a meal and avoiding foods that are high in fat or fried.
For diabetics, Jalal Nafach, consultant endocrinologist at the Dubai Diabetes Center, urges avoiding juices and drinking plenty of water to help cleanse the body of the new diet.
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