Addressing common complaints during Ramadan, Qatar officials have warned motorists against speeding on the roads at iftar time and advised them not to overeat after breaking their fasts.
Noting an uptick in serious accidents during Ramadan compared to the rest of the year, the Ministry of Interior highlighted the dangers of rushing around at sunset in a post on Facebook, saying:
“Although the concerned authorities are taking possible measures to ensure safety of road users, excessive speed and negligent driving especially at the time when all are rushing back to their homes, lead to traffic violations that may sometime end in fatal crashes.”
To decrease stress at sunset, motorists should leave early and allow for plenty of time to get to their destinations, the MOI added.
Those who find themselves running late should pull over, break their fasts “and then proceed calmly to join your family members for iftar.”
Overeating
Separately, an emergency room doctor at Hamad Medical Corp. (HMC) has reminded those who are fasting to not overeat at night, saying the ER has being seeing an increase in patients with gastrointestinal problems.
In a statement, Dr. Saad Abdul Fattah al-Nuaimi, senior consultant of Emergency Medicine, said:
“If people don’t maintain moderate food intake and overindulge, this contradicts the purpose of the fast. It can also lead to weight gain and obesity with its complications, such as diabetes mellitus and heart disease.
Part of the benefits of fasting is to help us develop a healthier lifestyle, in addition to reinforce community relationships and enhance compassion and charity.”
To avoid abdominal cramping and other pain, he recommended keeping the iftar meal light and drinking lots of fluids. Al-Nuaimi also advised against skipping suhoor, saying it could result in dehydration and fatigue.
Finally, he added that it’s best to avoid consuming salty and fatty foods, caffeinated beverages and refined carbohydrates and sugar (such as white bread, white rice, sweets and pastries) that can cause blood sugar surges and lead to weight gain.
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