It’s that time of year again when so many Muslims around the world rejoice in the beloved month of Ramadan. For many of us, Ramadan is the time to fill our days with good deeds and the nights with spiritually uplifting prayer. However, all the fasting and lack of sleep can take a toll on our bodies if we lack the necessary nutrients and hydration to carry us through the month. Taking the right steps can ensure that Ramadan will uplift us not only spiritually, but physically as well.

With Ramadan falling during late spring, the days are longer and the nights are shorter, making fasting a challenge. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy through Ramadan.

1. HYDRATION ISN'T JUST WATER! Yes, water is the best way to hydrate our bodies, but it's not the only way – and with the long hours of fasting, we need all the help we can get!

2. Food choices matter! Excess salt and sugar will pull water out of cells leaving your body thirsty, so choosing the right foods to prevent thirst is just as important as hydrating.  

3. Don't skip suhoor! Suhoor is a kick-start to your day and helps your body sugars stabilize more because meals are being distributed instead of eaten in one shot at iftar. See smoothie tips above! 

4. Avoid being in the heat for extended periods of time. For obvious reasons. 

5. Avoid eating very large meals at Iftar. Keep meals light and balanced. Increase vegetable portions in your meals to avoid sugar spikes.

7. Avoid sleeping right after suhoor and iftar. This will help your body digest your meal better. Maybe read some Quran or do some other types of ibadah (worship).

8. Get enough rest! We all want to keep up with prayer and worship; however, it is important for your body to get enough rest to function well through the month. Use your time wisely throughout the day to avoid cramming everything at night.

Ramadan is a time to rejuvenate your body as well as your soul! Keep these simple tips in mind and Insha'Allah we'll all have a successful Ramadan. May it be a beneficial month filled with personal and spiritual growth for us all, Insha'Allah! 

Ramadan Mubarak to you and your loved ones!

Lamees Lahham has a BS in Nutrition from Montclair State University and is currently working towards becoming a registered dietitian. She is a mom of a toddler who inspires her to lead a healthy lifestyle. Lamees is very passionate about what she does and enjoys sharing the valuable information she's always learning. She's an advocate for living healthy- even in a busy, fast-paced world. You can reach Lamees at lamees.lahham@gmail.com