Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 20 April 2020:   Holy Month of Ramadan shortly begins and it’s very important to be prepared, Ms Archana Baju the Clinical Dietician at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi say: “A healthy diet helps to maintain and improve overall health. Proper Nutrition and hydration is essential. People who follow a healthy balanced diet plan have stronger immune system and stay healthy during the fasting period”.

 

Remember,

 

 Eat fresh foods everyday which includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, lentils, whole grains (wheat, Brown rice, Oats, Corn, Quinoa) , milk products and lean protein choices (egg, chicken, fish meat)

 

 Avoid all processed foods, packed foods loaded with salt and sugar

 

 Balanced Diet can help for a better immune system. Include lot of fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin B, C, E, A and D. Like Orange, Lemon, Kiwi, Strawberry, Mango, Guava, Broccoli, Green leafy Vegetables, Mushrooms, Peppers, Tomatoes, Pumpkin, Carrot, Sweet Potato, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Nuts, Seeds fortified cereals and etc

 

 Replace fried foods and sugary desserts with healthy alternatives. Adapt healthy cooking methods like steam, poach, Bake, sauté, Stir-fry etc

 

 Use minimal salt for cooking and instead add herbs, spices, lemon, garlic and other seasonings

 

 Trim off the visible fat from the meat, skinless chicken is best opted. Include good protein choices for Iftaar and Suhoor. Protein rich foods fill the appetite.

 

 Don’t overcook the veggies- as they tend to lose the nutrients, color and flavor

 

 Drink lots of water. Apart choose low fat dairy (Milk, Laban, Yogurt, fresh juices (no added sugars), coconut water, herbal teas and soups for hydration

 

 Snack on fresh fruits, veggie salads, Nuts

 

 Stay active – whatever and whenever possible at home. Small walks, climbing stairs, Stretches or any fitness activities

 

Self-Control and Self Discipline is mandatory.