Uganda: Ramathan - Dos and Don'ts of Fasting, Best Foods to Break the Fast, and Health Benefits

26 February 2025
Nile Post (Kampala)
By Salmah Namwanje

As Muslims around the world prepare for the holy month of Ramadan--a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection--many are focused on observing the month in the best way possible.

Fasting during Ramadan, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requires abstinence from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset.

Here is a look at the dos and don'ts of fasting, the recommended way to break the fast, and the health benefits of fasting beyond religious observance.

Dos:

  • Begin with an intention (Niyyah): Fasting should be observed with sincerity and the right intentions to fulfill religious obligations.
  • Eat Suhoor (pre-dawn meal): It is recommended to eat a healthy pre-dawn meal to provide energy for the day.
  • Engage in spiritual activities: Reciting the Quran, praying, giving charity, and helping others enhance the spiritual benefits of fasting.
  • Break the fast promptly at sunset: Delaying Iftar unnecessarily is discouraged in Islam.
  • Consume nutritious foods: A balanced diet helps sustain the body through long fasting hours.
  • Stay hydrated after sunset: Drinking enough water during non-fasting hours helps prevent dehydration.

Don'ts:

  • Avoid gossip and negative speech: Speaking ill of others and engaging in unnecessary arguments reduce the spiritual reward of fasting.
  • Refrain from bad habits: Smoking, lying, and engaging in sinful acts invalidate or reduce the impact of fasting.
  • Do not overeat at Iftar: Consuming excessive amounts of food at once can lead to digestive issues and discomfort.
  • Avoid skipping Suhoor: Missing the pre-dawn meal may cause fatigue and weakness during the day.
  • Do not waste time on distractions: Engaging in unproductive activities takes away from the spiritual purpose of Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended breaking the fast with dates and water. Dates are rich in natural sugars, providing an instant energy boost.

If dates are not available, fruits, soup, or light meals are good alternatives. A balanced Iftar should include proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and plenty of fluids to replenish the body.

Beyond religious significance, fasting has several health benefits, including:

  • Improved metabolism: Fasting helps regulate digestion and improves metabolic functions.
  • Weight management: It aids in reducing calorie intake and promoting fat loss when done healthily.
  • Detoxification: Fasting allows the body to cleanse itself by removing toxins and impurities.

As the holy month begins, millions of Muslims will observe fasting as a spiritual practice while also benefiting from its positive effects on health.

With the right approach to fasting, individuals can ensure they maintain their energy levels and well-being throughout Ramadan.

Read the original article on Nile Post.

Tagged:
Copyright © 2025 Nile Post. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.