Ramadan (Arabic: رمضان ) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
The word Ramadan comes originally from the word ramd "to burn". The month is spent by Muslims fasting during the daylight hours from dawn to sunset. The name came from before the Islamic calendar creation, when the month of Ramadan started in the summer. Fasting during this month is often thought to symbolically burn away all sins.
Note: The symbol of Ramadan is the new moon which is sighted before Muslims start fasting, astrologically this year, Ramadan should be starting on Wednesday, however, Tuesday astrologers will look for the new moon incase it appears earlier.
Ramadan is the month of charity and generosity; it is about giving the poor and the needy, by offering one's time, efforts and donations.
Tips for a blessed and successful Ramadan
Ramadan Timings:
1. Avoid the rush hours from 1 P.M to 4: 30 P.M on certain roads and bridges
2. Double check the timings of any service providers because in Ramadan all working hours are re-scheduled whether private or government entities.
Breakfast & Supper:
3. For Breakfast (Iftar), it’s advisable that you consume slow digesting foods including fibre containing-foods rather than fast-digesting foods. Slow digesting foods last up to 8 hours, while fast-digesting foods last for only 3 to 4 hours.
Slow-digesting foods are foods that contain grains and seeds such as barley, wheat, oats, beans, lentils, whole meal flour, and unpolished rice. These are complex carbohydrates. Fast-burning foods are foods that contain ingredients such as sugar and white flour.
4. If you are fasting the next day, it’s recommended to drink a lot of water and have yogurt in your sohour or dinner.
5. Drink as much water or fruit juices as possible between iftar and bedtime so that your body may adjust fluid levels in time.
What to avoid:
6. Headache Causes: Caffeine and tobacco-withdrawal, lack of sleep, and hunger. Usually occur as the day goes by and worsens at the end of the day. When associated with "low blood pressure", the headache can be quite severe and can also cause nausea before breakfast or Iftar.
Remedy: Cut down caffeine and tobacco slowly starting a few days before Ramadan.
7. Avoid the too much tea at Sohour as tea makes you urinate more taking away all valuable mineral salts that your body would need during the day especially in August weather. Also avoid smoking cigarettes or Shisha (Hubble): If you cannot give up smoking, cut down gradually starting a few days before Ramadan. And avoid fried and spicy foods as they may cause heartburn or indigestion.
8. During the hottest part of the day, stay in cool areas (indoors or in shade) and limit your physical activity.
