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This Meal is Key to a Smooth Ramadan - Eats and Treats by Tania Rebello

TDT | Manama                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com   

Suhoor, also called Sehri, is the meal consumed by Muslims at dawn before the day of fasting commences. While many focus on Iftar, the meal that marks the end of the fast, Suhoor could be considered the most important meal of the day and the key to a more manageable fasting period. If you observe Ramadan, it is essential to ask yourself: Do you feel sluggish or experience low energy levels during the day?

Do you find it challenging to perform regular tasks? Do you get hunger pangs? Your answer lies in Suhoor. Fueling our bodies is crucial to maintaining energy levels and cognitive functions. A well thought-out Suhoor during Ramadan ensures that you consume the proper nutrients.

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In addition, carefully planned meals keep you energetic throughout the day.  Fiber-rich foods help to control blood sugar levels. 
 
The spike in sugar levels from consuming sugar and simple carbohydrates can cause you to feel hungry sooner.  Foods containing fiber keep you fuller longer as they take longer to digest. 
 
Fiber-rich foods include avocados, lentils, chia seeds, apples, broccoli, sweet potatoes, carrots, almonds, chickpeas, legumes, oats, and peas. 
 
These can be easily included in your daily Suhoor meal. Foul/ful medames is one such dish that is a tasty combination of fava beans cooked with onions, garlic, spices, and herbs. 
 
Overnight oats with berries or bananas and a drizzle of honey is delicious and an excellent source of fiber. Prepare Energy Balls . 
 
Remember to underestimate the power of one of these. Make them ahead of time and eat one before starting your fast. These are delicious and contain energy-rich ingredients such as peanut butter and dates.
 
Oats give you fiber to help you feel fuller for a more extended period, and chia seeds contribute to the Omega 3 that your body needs. Energy balls are versatile, and the ingredients can easily be mixed and matched to suit your taste buds. 
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Make these energy balls and store them in the fridge for a grab-and-go flavour-packed bite. Proteins also help you stay fuller for a longer period of time. 
 
Protein-rich foods include eggs, quinoa, chicken, lentils, milk, fish, nuts, chickpeas, beans, and yoghurt. Eggs are versatile and can be used in many preparations, such as frittata, shakshuka, scrambled eggs on toast, and poached eggs on avocado toast.
 
The options are endless. Chicken can be pre-cooked and prepared into scrumptious sandwiches, hearty soups, or eaten with vegetables and brown rice for a wholesome meal.
 
Pressure to cook beans and legumes and transform them into tasty, nutritious dishes that can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheat very well. This enables you to serve a hassle-free early morning meal. 
 
Could you make sure to prioritise Suhoor? It is beneficial to you and can make your day much better.
 
Ramadan Kareem!