After fasting for a period of one month, the body gets used to a certain routine of receiving foods at specific times with a very long fasting window during the day.
Due to limited and restricted eating patterns, the metabolism becomes a bit sluggish so suddenly returning to pre-Ramadhan food habits and routine may shock the body.
Also, random and sudden overeating may trigger undesirable symptoms such as heatburn, bloating, belching, indigestion, and the most unwanted and dreaded weight gain, leading to fatigue and lethargy.
Dr Monika Seth, a freelance nutrition consultant based in Oman, said, there’s absolutely no need to turn down any invitations or completely avoid all your favourite dishes in pursuit of health.
"Controlling your portions is crucial whether you are at a social gathering or hosting a party at your place. Piling up food on your plate just because it's an occasion is no excuse to let your health go for a toss and overfilling your plate will not only lead to food wastage outside your body, but will also cause food spoilage within your system," she said.
Dr Monika suggested not to ignore veggies and fruits. "Eating fresh fruits and salads during celebrations may not sound very pleasing to your palate but it is the best way not only to control your appetite, the essential nutrients and fibre will also make you feel full and satisfied which will save you from getting tempted to those high calorie and fattening delights later," she said.
She said simply avoiding packed, processed junk foods and opting for healthier options will save one a lot of trouble. "Enjoy your favourite homemade desserts and puddings prepared with low-fat milk, ghee, jaggery, fresh fruits, dates and nuts but here again, portion control is the key. Eat 1-2 fresh dates/figs before reaching for any calorie and fat-laden sweets; this will control your sugar cravings," Dr Monika said.
She added that sipping water throughout the day must continue. "Opt for healthier drinks (along with water) i.e low-fat laban, detox water, lemon-ginger drink, and herbal teas rather than aerated beverages which are loaded with empty calories due to sugar," she said.
To be more fit, Dr Monika said, "Go for a quick walk. Finding time for a quick walk or any exercise along with your family will not only keep your weight under control and keep your digestive system healthy, but also enhance the true meaning of the celebration," she said.
"It’s easier to blame our sweet tooth or find excuses to surrender when temptation knocks on our door, but there is always a smart way to tackle it and your body will thank you later," she said.
TIPS
* Exercise portion control
* Do not ignore veggies, fruits
* Make easy swaps to salt and sugar
* Take a quick walk
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