MINDFUL EATING:
Embracing the Spirit of Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a significant Muslim festival celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan, a month-long fasting period. At the heart of the celebration is communing with family and friends, and of course, feasting. Naturally, during this festive period, it is easy to indulge in rich and calorie-laden foods, which can have negative impacts on our health. While many of our festivities involve food and feasting, practising healthy and mindful eating during Hari Raya is important to maintain our health and wellbeing. In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you eat healthily and mindfully during Hari Raya.
PLAN YOUR MEALS IN ADVANCE
One of the best ways to ensure that you eat healthily during Hari Raya is to plan your meals in advance. Plan your meals for the day and decide what you want to eat. You can also prepare healthy and nutritious meals in advance to avoid the temptation of consuming unhealthy foods. Planning your meals in advance will also help you control your portion sizes, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight.
EAT SLOWLY AND MINDFULLY
Eating slowly and mindfully is another important tip to follow during Hari Raya. Take the time to savour and enjoy the flavours of the food. Eating slowly will also help you recognise when you are full, which will prevent you from overeating. Mindful eating involves paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues, eating in a calm and relaxed environment, and avoiding distractions such as television or mobile phones while eating.
GET ACTIVE
Staying active is also important during Hari Raya. Engage in physical activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming to burn off the extra calories consumed during the festive period. Regular physical activity is also crucial for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
PLAN AHEAD
Before the festivities begin, it is important to plan ahead and set some goals for yourself. Decide on how many days you will be celebrating and which events you will be attending. This will help you to plan your meals and snacks accordingly. You can also try to limit your intake of certain foods that are high in calories and fat , such as fried foods and sugary desserts.
PRACTICE MODERATION
Moderation is key when it comes to healthy eating. It is okay to indulge in your favourite foods during Hari Raya, but it is important to do so in moderation. You can try to balance out your meals by including healthy options such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. You can also try to limit your portion sizes and avoid going back for seconds.
CHOOSE HEALTHIER OPTIONS
During Hari Raya, there are usually many different types of food available. While it is tempting to indulge in everything, it is important to choose healthier options. Opt for foods that are low in fat, sugar, and salt. You can also choose foods that are high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods will help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods and will provide you with the necessary nutrients to keep you healthy.
CONTROL YOUR PORTION SIZES
Controlling your potion sizes is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight. During Hari Raya, it can be easy to overindulge in rich and calorie-laden foods. To control your portion sizes, use smaller plates, and avoid going back for seconds. You can also fill up your plate with vegetables and lean protein first before adding other foods.
STAY HYDRATED
Drinking enough water is crucial to maintaining good health. During Hari Raya, it is important to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration, especially if you are fasting. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid sugary drinks such as sodas and fruit juices.