DOHA: As the Holy Month of Ramadan draws to a close with Eid Al Fitr festivities are drawing near, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is cautioning people about indulging in eating and consuming soft drinks to prevent stomach upsets and intestinal disorders.
HMC is encouraging people to view Eid break as an opportunity to develop healthy eating habits to lead healthy life.
“Unfortunately, many people tend to overload their stomach with unhealthy food and soft drinks during Eid celebrations. As a result, we often notice rise in number of patients seeking emergency treatment for gastric issues such as nausea, vomiting, stomach upset and indigestion at Hamad General Hospital’s (HGH) Emergency Department,” said Senior Consultant of Emergency Medicine, Dr Saad Al Nuaimi.
“The body becomes accustomed to a prolonged period of fasting during Ramadan and the transition from ‘fast’ to ‘feast’ can have adverse effects on one’s health. At instances where people are suffering from diabetes and heart disease, the health risks are multiplied with sudden loss of control in blood sugar levels created by consumption of large amounts of sweets and sugars,” he added.
Dr Al Nuaimi noted that while it is important to take time to celebrate with friends and family, it is also important to remember purpose of fasting in Ramadan.
To prevent from falling sick during the Eid celebrations, Dr Al Al Nuaimi advice to eat healthy food in moderation and avoid consumption of soft drinks, not to skip breakfast, as this will just lead to overeating during the day,
Keep hydrated throughout the day, try to choose healthy options like small portions of low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats, avoid salty foods and sugary and caffeinated drinks, heavy fatty foods, which can cause gastrointestinal disturbances. People should also avoid refined carbohydrates and sugar (like white bread, white rice, sweets and pastries) which raise blood sugar. Food items should be stored properly in refrigerator or as directed on the food label.
A daily workout for 30 minutes, five-days a week is also advised to stay fit and healthy.
The Peninsula
