For the last few weeks, the Muslim community have been observing Ramadan, a time of fasting, but this week on the 13th and 14th of May comes Eid Al Fatir, the breaking of the fast. This is the day where, traditionally, the Muslim community feast in celebration and this feasting can contain many high fat and high sugar items such as Baklava, Maamoul, Sheer Khurma, Manti, Lokum (Turkish Delight), Beef Rendang and Bolani.
Just because it is a time of feasting it doesn’t mean that it is a cue to eat unhealthily. There are many things that can be done to ensure this end of fasting celebration can be made healthier for you. So here are a few tips:
- Take your time and eat slowly – Your stomach will be smaller due to fasting and eating too quickly can make you ill,
- When cooking, use healthier vegetable oils rather than clarified butters like ghee,
- Make more vegetable dishes such as vegetable Biriyani, or Dal Makhani.
- Avoid fatty meats like lamb and instead opt for lean meats like chicken.
- If you are cooking Sheer Khurma, then use semi skimmed milk and limit the amount of sugar used,
- Limit the amount of sweet treats you have.
- Use Tagines for cooking healthy recipes for the family.
- Eat at family gatherings where food will be served and there will be breaks between courses.
- As Eid is considered by many as a new start for the year, start making plans for a healthier lifestyle.
We hope these tips help you to have a happy and healthy Eid Al Fitr.
