If you are struggling to adapt to waking up early and having a meal, here are some tips that can help
This story was first published on April 17, 2021, and updated on April 1, 2022.
Ramadan is finally upon us with the season beginning at the end of this week on April 3.
It falls yearly on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and involves a month-long period of fasting, prayer, reflection and family bonding. Typically observed by Muslims around the world, it is considered to be the holiest month of the year.
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During this month, able-bodied Muslims who are not pregnant, menstruating, sick or elderly, will fast from food and water from dawn to dusk daily.
This is a requirement for Muslims who will typically begin their fasting day with a meal right before dawn. Of course, we cannot discount the fact that the body will have to get used to the sudden changes in your food intake as well as in the time that you get up in the morning.
If you are worried about getting your body to adapt to the strict fast, here are solutions to a few common issues you might face.
1. How do I get hungry for sahur?
Sahur, or subhoor, refers to the meal that Muslims consume before dawn and before they begin fasting for the day. This month, sahur will take place between 5.45 am and 5.55 am. This can be quite early for many people, especially those who are used to sleeping late and eating only after the body has had time to properly wake up.
However, skipping sahur is not a good idea because it will mean that you will end up hungrier earlier in the day. According to Healthline.com, “The food choices you make will affect your energy throughout the day.”
In fact, not eating during sahur can cause serious low blood sugar problems and dehydration. That would lead to feeling dizzy and distracted during the day.
So, if you are struggling to eat a meal at suhur, consider changing up your routine. When you first wake up, online news site NDTV Food recommends drinking a glass of water as it can help to “flush out the toxin build-up overnight and get your metabolism started.”
Then, try to drink a little fruit juice or have a teaspoon of honey. “The idea is to start your day with a food or a drink that will help kick-start your systems and get your digestive juices flowing and so, you’ll naturally feel hungry for breakfast,” says NDTV Food.
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