Every year, Muslims around the world practice fasting during the entire holy month of Ramadan, lasting 29 to 30 days. In this religious ritual, Muslims fast for 12 to 18 hours as a way to connect more deeply with their faith, reflect on their lives, and give back to their community.^[1]

During fasting, one must abstain from consuming any food or drink, including water, from sunrise to sunset.^[1] This period is symbolic of spiritual reflection and discipline. Once the sun sets, it's a feast like no other, where food becomes a celebration until the break of dawn.

Yet, this month isn't just about what's on the plate; it's about a shift in lifestyle. Sleep patterns, meal times, and even workouts will be affected during Ramadan^[2], posing a new set of challenges in the fasting routine.

The following are five tips that can assist in having a smoother journey during Ramadan fasting.

1. Enjoy a nutritious and wholesome Sahur Meal

Sahur, also known as the pre-dawn meal, holds utmost importance during the month of Ramadan as it kickstarts the long fasting period ahead of each new day. This meal serves as a vital source of sustenance, providing the necessary nutrients to fuel the body and sustain energy levels throughout the day of fasting.^[3]

However, the food choices made during this meal can significantly impact energy levels over the day if not chosen carefully. Many opt for simple carbohydrates such as white bread or a cup of sweet coffee for a rapid energy boost. Though this choice can lead to a subsequent crash in energy levels as the day progresses, leaving one feeling tired and sleepy.

Instead, opting for whole grains combined with healthy fats and proteins along with a serving of fruits and vegetables is a better choice.^[3,4] It is essential for Sahur meal to be wholesome and nutritious, ensuring that they provide long-lasting energy.

Additionally, Kordel's Executive B supplement, a comprehensive B complex formula, serves as an invaluable ally. By providing essential B vitamins, known for their role in energy metabolism, this supplement helps to support a steady and consistent energy supply, ensuring individuals can navigate their fasting journey with vitality and vigour. Simply take one tablet during Sahur is all it takes!

2. Protect the Stomach for the Long Fast

While fasting offers numerous health advantages, the extended fasting period during Ramadan can worsen digestive symptoms. Prolonged fasting of 12 to 18 hours can increase gastric acidity, leading to stomach upset problems such as acid reflux and indigestion.^[5]

Changes in eating habits, like larger meals during sahur and iftar, can overload the digestive system, causing bloating and discomfort.^[6] Dehydration from fasting can affect digestion and lead to constipation.

To prevent overeating during iftar, start with a small portion, chew slowly, and include fibre-rich foods in your meals. Staying hydrated and listening to your body's cues are also crucial.

Kordel's eStomac can also provide relief when it comes to preventing and solving stomach discomfort. Whether it's bloating, indigestion, or acid reflux, just taking one capsule of Kordel's eStomac after iftar can help ease symptoms, allowing you to enjoy your meal with greater comfort.

3. Be Mindful of the Food Choices

Breaking the fast often involves a big celebration with plenty of traditional dishes, which tend to be high in fat, salt, and sugar. Or it could be the trendy treat like kurma butter (dates topped with a sliver of butter), which has been gaining attention on TikTok and is also high in fat. While these foods are delicious and part of our customs, they can also increase the risk of various diseases.

One such concern is fatty liver disease, where excessive fat consumption contributes to the accumulation of fat in the liver. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and scarring, impairing liver function and increasing the risk of serious complications. Therefore, it's important to be mindful of food choices and strive for a balance between tradition and overall well-being.

Kordel's Renawell, powered by the key ingredient Robuvit® French Oak Extract, acts as the liver's shield. It boosts cells to produce more proteins, aiding in cell renewal and enhancing the liver's ability to detoxify effectively. With Renawell's help, the liver stays protected and functions at its best, even during the indulgent feasting of Ramadan!

4. Stay Hydrated

A significant challenge of Ramadan fasting is managing intense thirst due to the restriction on water intake throughout the long fasting hours. Not drinking enough water during non-fasting hours can result in dehydration, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and headaches the day after.^[3,7]

To stay hydrated, take advantage of the time before sunrise and after sunset by drinking plenty of water. It's a good idea to keep a water bottle close by at night and take sips of water as often as possible.

Kordel's Glutathione-C Hyaluronic Acid Effervescent supplement also offers a convenient way to replenish fluids and essential nutrients. It contains a blend of glutathione, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Just drop one effervescent tablet into a glass of cold water and enjoy the refreshing and nourishing effects.

Moreover, Kordel's Glutathione-C Hyaluronic Acid Effervescent supplement also boasts complexion-brightening properties, ensuring you look radiant and ready for Raya celebrations.

5. Understand your Health

During Ramadan fasting, it's vital to prioritize health as the physical and mental challenges can be demanding. Dehydration, fatigue, and disrupted sleep patterns are common concerns that can lead to illness if not managed effectively.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once proclaimed the healing properties of black seed, stating, "The black seed can heal every disease, except death."

Incorporating Kordel’s Black Seed Extract, also known as Habbatus Sauda or black cumin, into your routine can support overall health with its potent immune-regulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is recommended to take one capsule a day to ensure a safe and fulfilling fasting experience during this holy month.

Summary

During Ramadan, people come together to celebrate and deepen their spirituality, but it's also a time of personal challenge as fasting is observed throughout the month.

Be sure to try out these helpful tips to stay energized during this Ramadan!

References

1. Hajji, J., Sabah, A., Aljaberi, M. A., Lin, Y., & Huang, Y. (2023). The Effect of Ramadan Fasting on the Coping Strategies Used by Male Footballers Affiliated with the Tunisian First Professional League. Healthcare, 11(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11071053
2. Iraki L, Bogdan A, Hakkou F, Amrani N, Abkari A, Touitou Y. Ramadan diet restrictions modify the circadian time structure in humans. A study on plasma gastrin, insulin, glucose, and calcium and on gastric pH. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1997;82:1261–73
3. Chatur, A. (2021). Practical Tips to Safely Fast During Ramadan. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/practical-tips-to-safely-fast-during-ramadan#Dont-skip-your-morning-meal
4. Food Tips. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthxchange.sg/food-nutrition/food-tips/ramadan-fasting-eat-suhoor
5. Amine, E. M., Kaoutar, S., Ihssane, M., Adil, I., & Dafr-Allah, B. (2013). Effect of Ramadan fasting on acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 18(3), 230-233. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3732905/
6. Preiato, D. (2020). 7 Ways That Overeating Affects Your Body. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/overeating-effects#6.-May-cause-excessive-gas-and-bloating
7. Blau, J. N., Kell, C. A., & Sperling, J. M. (2003). Water-Deprivation Headache: A New Headache With Two Variants. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 44(1), 79-83. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2004.04014.