Ramadan diet: Following intermittent fasting pattern during holy month

Intermittent fasting has gained popularity in the last few years, thanks to its weight-loss benefits. Moreover, many following the diet plan throughout the year and fasting during the month of Ramadan may question the similarities between the two, when it comes to their overall benefits and impact on one’s health.

To begin with, intermittent fasting is a kind of energy restriction diet plan that involves switching between fasting and eating on a regular schedule. There are several forms of intermittent fasting which implicates limited feeding time windows.

Ramadan fasting can help people in reducing fat mass, improving blood lipid profile, improving blood pressure, insulin sensitivity as well as improved fasting blood glucose levels.

It is important to avoid empty, non-nutritious calories from fizzy drinks, fried foods and caffeinated products. Include foods that are:

· Rich in fibre (such as fresh fruits, vegetables, quinoa, burgul, oats)

· Healthy fats (avocado, nuts, pumpkin seeds, olive oil)

· Quality proteins (eggs, fatty fish, dairy products, poultry)

· The dietary pattern should conform to the My Plate eating style which ensures ample intake of all nutrients through right food group choices.

Fahmida Jafri, clinical dietician, Thumbay University Hospital