Ramadan 2023: Have you ever considered a Muslim home where guests aren’t offered dates, especially during the fasting month of Ramadan? Obviously not. Let’s pause for a moment to consider why breaking your fast with a date is so special.
Walking down memory lane, we can think back to a time when the revered Prophet Mohammed of Islam would break his day-long fast with a few dates and some water. Muslims starting their Iftar by popping a few dates in their mouths is now a well-established custom. That touches on the religious aspect of the story a little. However science has been nice enough to provide some data and proof to support this ancient practise. Let’s look at them now.
- They direct how food is consumed: You can’t be gorging on any food you want since you haven’t eaten anything all day. Beginning with dates encourages the release of the digestive fluids that prepare the stomach for food.
- They are loaded with fibre and carbs: You need not be concerned about becoming overly hungry or how this can affect your bowel motions. Dates include fibre, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
- Good for heart health: It’s healthy for your heart and lowers your chance of having a stroke as well. It is a complete package since it includes sugar, proteins, calcium, magnesium, and other nutrients.
- Dates are a fantastic source of energy: You can have all-day drowsiness as a result of fasting. Yet, dates have a seemingly miraculous effect on you that gives you a sudden burst of energy.
The next time someone asks you out on a date and claims it’s just custom, you’ll be able to discuss a lot more advantages with them.