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How to Celebrate Ramadan after Weight-Loss Surgery?
It's time again for a special annual Islamic tradition: Ramadan. But how should you celebrate Ramadan after weight-loss surgery? In this blog, we explain more and share a healthy, protein-rich Ramadan recipe to get you started.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is a month of the Islamic calendar. This calendar follows the lunar calendar, which determines the beginning and end of the fasting period. During Ramadan, Muslims fast for a month from sunrise to sunset. After sunset, there is the Iftar, which means “meal” in Arabic.
Why do Muslims Fast?
Ramadan is also called the great Jihad, the battle with the ego. You want to find yourself and rebalance your body and soul. You put your self-interest at second place and refrain from gossiping, lying and fighting. Ramadan is most of all a time of self-reflection, contemplation and spiritual growth to strengthen the connection with Allah.
Ramadan after Sunset
When the sun has set, the table is filled with all sorts of small dishes. First, there's a date and water or milk. As this breaks the fast, you can start eating properly. Having meals after sunset is often the time to get in with each other and pray together.
Fasting after Weight-Loss Surgery
People who are ill, fragile or have diabetes, pregnant women and children under 12 do not have to fast. Have you had weight-loss surgery less than a year ago? Then it is better not to participate in Ramadan. If you do want to take part or had surgery some time ago, it is important to mind your protein intake. Sufficient fluids are also essential. Drink at least 1.5 litres of water if it is allowed after sunset. Also, try the recipe below.
Recipe: 'Breaking the Fast'
Start your meal with a protein boost! This smoothie is rich in protein. Dates and nuts are full of nutrients which your body can really use after a day of fasting. Plus, they are also easily digestible.
You'll need
For 1 serving
- 200 millilitres of almond milk
- 30 grams of Pure Whey Protein Natural or Vanilla
- 1 date
- 1 handful of almonds
How to make this Smoothie
- Cut the date into small pieces and finely chop the almonds.
- Add the date, nuts, almond milk and Pure Whey Protein to a blender.
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and airy
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and it's ready!
Ending Ramadan: the Sugar Feast
Ramadan traditionally ends with the Sugar Feast, also known as Eid El Fitr ('the small feast'). Sugar Feast officially begins the night before at sunset. According to the Islamic calendar, this marks the beginning of a new day. During Sugar Feast, Muslims visit one another and give each other gifts or money. As it is a feast, everyone looks their best. Want to wish a Muslim congratulations for accomplishing this special milestone? Then say Eid Mubarak!
