Unless you are deliberately trying to look like a shriveled prune and having the energy level of one too- hydrate yourself. With the mercury rising this Ramadan, it is important to provide your body with hydration. It will render you more fit to carry out daily activities while fasting and will also work wonders for your overall well- being. Foodistan fished out some effective ways to help you stay on top of your fluid and water intake.
(The information in this article as well as tips and suggestions are not a substitute for medical advice. Consult with your doctor or health practitioner before embarking on making any changes to your diet or eating regimen.)
TIP # 1
Guzzle your Water
Foodies, you need to be cautious with this one. Make sure you maintain adequate water intake. Perspiration, respiration, urine and stools all make our beautiful bods lose water. Replenish your body with recommended quantities of H 2 O at both sehri and post sunset. Your cells will breathe a huge sigh of relief!
TIP # 2
Nix the Caffeine and Fizzy Drinks
Tea and coffe junkies, take note. Stimulants like tea and coffee, which contain caffeine actually have a dehydrating effect on your body. The same goes for fizzy drinks loaded with sugar. Not only do they make your blood sugar levels soar and plummet like a see-saw (this is a simile guys, don’t take it literally), they also pave the way for dehydration. If you really can’t do without your cuppa, then do yourself a favour and limit your intake.
TIP # 3
Sip that Soup
Soups always hit the sweet spot. And yes, they do help us stay in the hydration game. Before you reach for that thick as molasses creamy bowl of something resembling soup, reconsider your options. Opt for clear soups that use broth as a base ingredient. Amp up the water content by adding veggies that support your cause. These are veggies with a high water content, in plain speak. Added bonus: If your soup contains recommended levels of salt, it actually assists in the process of you staying hydrated.
Tip # 4
Jump-start with Juice
Give fresh veggie and fruit juices a go at iftar. However, remember guys- moderation, moderation, moderation. Don’t sit serenely with a glass that remotely resembles a pitcher. Limit your intake. Juices also contain natural sugars and the last thing you need is a sugar overload. Be it apples, oranges, cucumbers, carrots, spinach, kale or ginger combine the season’s most luscious to make delish treats that nourish your body. Additionally, they provide your body’s levels of sparkly vitamins and minerals extra oomph giving you all the more reason to smile.
Tip # 5
Fruits and Veggies
Chomp on fruits and vegetables that boast a high water content. Your best bets: cucumbers, tomatoes, strawberries, oranges and zucchini. Use them in salads, soups and stir fries. Look for more options. And hey, don’t forget those fruitalicious natural yoghurts or green smoothies.
Still not satiated? Here is one last tip- coconut water. This miracle drink is high in electrolytes. Be mindful of your intake though. Sometimes too much of a good thing is well- not too good.
Now sip that plain water. Don’t like the taste? Add some mint leaves. Wishing you all a radiant Ramadan!
