A new UN report has confirmed that Qatar continues to struggle with obesity, and, mindful that Ramadan can often mean a month of excess eating after dark, government entities are making a push for a healthier holy month.

First came the Aspire Zone’s “Walk more.. walk in Malls” program, and now Orthopedic Hospital Aspetar has got in on the act with its “Healthy Ramadan” campaign.

Dr. Khalifa Al Kuwari, Aspetar’s CEO, explains why the hospital has launched the guide:

“It is a nationwide misconception that, throughout Ramadan, we have no choice but to let our healthy eating habits and work-out regimens disappear due to the strenuous effects that fasting can have on the body.”

“However, our goal with the Healthy Ramadan campaign is to make sure that this is not the case.”

Top tips in the guide include:

• Eating a light meal just before dawn which is low in sugar and salt, to reduce thirst and hunger during the day;
• Breaking the fast with some dates and water, and then eating some soup before taking a break to give your body time to adjust to food;
• Avoiding very strenuous exercise throughout the month, although light exercise is encouraged. The guide suggests two hours after iftar as the best time to head to the gym;
• Carrying a water bottle with you for evening prayer, and drinking regularly, but in moderate amounts only; and
• Trying to get at least eight hours of sleep every night, and napping during the day is encouraged too.

You can read or download the guide in English below:

Thoughts?

Credit: Photo by Richard Messenger