Nutrition
Importance of Fruits During Ramadan

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, is a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. A vital part of observing Ramadan is Iftar—the evening meal with which Muslims break their daily fast at sunset. Fruits play an essential role in Iftar, providing nutrition, hydration, and energy after long hours of fasting.
Here are some of the most recommended fruits to include in your Ramadan meals:
Dates
Dates are traditionally used to break the fast. They are rich in sugar, fibre, potassium, vitamins, and minerals, helping to restore energy quickly after fasting.
Watermelon
Watermelon is highly consumed for hydration, as it is composed mostly of water. It can be enjoyed in slices or blended into refreshing smoothies.
Bananas
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which helps maintain fluid balance and reduce thirst. They also provide natural energy to keep you going after fasting.
Apples
Apples are fibre-rich and nutritious, promoting heart health, aiding weight management, and improving digestion.
Cucumber
Cucumber is one of the best hydrating fruits, composed of water and fibre, which aids digestion while revitalising the body.
Pawpaw (Papaya)
Pawpaw is low in calories and sugar, rich in fibre, and promotes healthy digestion, hair, and skin. It is a nutritious addition to any Iftar meal.
Including a variety of these fruits during Ramadan not only helps replenish lost nutrients but also supports overall health, digestion, and hydration throughout the fasting period.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
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Nutrition
Wheat ‘angwa mo’ recipe

Ingredients
-Oil
-1 large onion
-2 cups of rice
-Salt
-2 cups of wheat
Preparation
-In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-low heat
-Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and turns golden brown
-Wash rice and wheat and put into pan. Sauté for two to three minutes, until toasty and fragrant
-Add water and salt and allow to boil.
– Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
-Taste the rice/wheat; if it is still a bit firm, add a few more tablespoons of water and cook a few more minutes.
-When the rice/wheat is ready, take it off the fire and serve hot
Benefits of wheat
–Improves digestion: High levels of insoluble fibre- wheat promotes regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut microbiome.
-Supports heart health: Whole-grain wheat helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, and decreases the risk of stroke and heart disease.
-Aids weight management: Complex carbohydrates and dense fibre slow digestion, increase feelings of fullness, and help prevent sharp blood sugar spikes.
-Lowers type 2 diabetes risk: Steady glucose release and minerals like magnesium improve insulin sensitivity.
– Provides essential vitamins and minerals: Wheat supplies B vitamins, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium, which help build bones and boost immune function.
–Delivers Antioxidants: Compounds like phenolic acids, ferulic acid, and lutein protect cells from oxidative stress and support eye health.
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Nutrition
Asaana (caramelised corn drink)

Ingredients
-4 cups of crushed corn
-1 cup of sugar
Method:
-Soak crushed corn for two or more days to ferment
-Boil the fermented corn for about 20-30 minutes until foamy substance is dried up
-Pour sugar in a saucepan and heat until almost burnt
-Strain water from the boiled corn and pour in the saucepan containing sugar
-Use a strainer to strain the chaff
-Allow to cool and store in refrigerator
– Serve with milk
By Linda Abrefi Wadie





