R a m a d a n  H e a l t h  T i p : Hydration

How many of you have been asked by coworkers and friends if you can have water while fasting? “Nope, not even water!” may surprise many who are unfamiliar with fasting in Ramadan. With an almost a 17 hour fast, proper hydration is very important to prevent dehydration.

Here are a few tips on staying well hydrated during Ramadan:

– Aim to drink 2 cups of water at suhoor followed by 4-6 cups of water from post-iftar to suhoor time. The best way to make sure you are drinking enough water is to keep a water bottle and sip throughout the night.

-Try to avoid sugary drinks such as juices and pop as they will spike your blood sugar without providing nutritional value.

-Drink coconut water daily. Coconut water is not only hydrating but has electrolytes too and can replete nutrient losses.

-Limit overly salty and caffeine during Suhoor as it can cause water to flush out resulting in increased thirst throughout the day.

-Consume hydrating fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, cucumber, celery and orange as they are rich in water and provide vitamins and minerals. However eating these fruits does not replace the need of water consumption. .

– Replenish your thirst with fruit infused waters

Here are a few of my favourite fruit-infused water beverages:

Berry infused water: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries + water + ice.

Citrus cucumber water: Lemon and orange slices, cucumber + water + ice. Optional: A pinch of himalayan salt

Mint Refresher: Peppermint leaves, cucumber,  lemon + water + ice.

Watermelon mint refresher: Watermelon slices, peppermint leaf + water + ice.

These waters are not only flavourful, but nutritious too.

Be sure to eat all the left over fruit too for the added nutrients. Stay hydrated!