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Fit while Fasting

Ramadan is a wonderful month for spiritual healing and getting closer to God, however the long hours of fasting does take a toll on most people.  This Ramadan I wanted to make sure I can stay energized and continue my daily routine. I wanted to share with you what I do to stay fit while fasting. Keep in mind I am no fitness guru I am just sharing what has been working for me.

Fulfilling Fuel 

 I am a big breakfast eater, I usually opt out of lunch and stick to a large breakfast, so for suhoor I had to make sure I find something that can keep me going. 

By far, this meal is the most fulling.

Ingredients:  

  • 2 Gluten free, dairy free and wheat free toast
  • Avocado slices 
  • Salmon 
  • Yellow and Red Peppers
  • Spinach  
  • 1 organic egg
  • Hummus 
  • Zaatar (thyme mix)
  • Cucumber Slices 

Toast.The key for energy is carbs. (Crazy? I know right.) Bread is a great source of carbs, but if you are totally against bread you can replace it with sweet potato toast! Check this link to see more.  It is really important to get carbs in because they are the first source of energy for your body, which is a must while fasting. 

Avocados are loaded with tons of vitamins and fatty acids. They also have more potassium than bananas!

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D which is great for your heart, hair , eyes and bones. 

Sweet Peppers are honestly my fav! They are so tasty, and a great source of Vitamin C

Spinach is high in zinc,  protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, E and K, thiamin, vitamin B6, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese. Basically your body will thank you!

Egg is an excellent source of protein, which your muscles need.  

Hummus and Zataar are Middle Eastern breakfast favs. Chickpeas found in hummus can help prevent cancer and the zataar seasoning is packed with great herbs that are tasty and beneficial . 

Smoothie

This green smoothie is so yummy and great. Sometimes I replace the spinach with kale which has a high source of iron. The coconut/almond milk along with the OJ and fruits make this smoothie perfectly sweet, but I like to add a little kick so I add a small amount of ginger in it. Ginger is a great way to relax your stomach which might be in shock when you are eating early.

Ingredients:

  • Frozen Pineapple/Mango 
  • Spinach
  • Ginger 
  • Coconut and Almond Milk
  • Orange juice. 

Fitness

I like to keep my workout light. After I am done with Karama work I go out for a walk. I walk for a mile and a bit, to get my heart racing I try to do speed walking. I usually work out once I wake up but for Ramadan I do it once I am done with all my business work, that way when I come home I can prepare for iftar. 

I like to take a little time to mediate and get lost into the ocean waves. I feel connecting to God when I am surrounded by His work of art. It is important for you to do some form of mediation to relax your mind and body.  What's great about the holy month is you having more chances to mediate, by reading the Quran, performing extra prayers and even remembering God.  

I hope you enjoyed this post. If you have any healthy tips to share please leave them in the comments below.