Faculty of Health Sciences - sbf@gelisim.edu.tr
For your satisfaction and complaints   İGÜMER
 Faculty of Health Sciences - sbf@gelisim.edu.tr

Nutrition And Dietetics








 Post-Ramadan Nutrition: A Healthy Start Is In Your Hands!


Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Assoc. Prof. H. Merve Bayram warned against common nutritional mistakes made during festive meals and shared recommendations for making healthier choices.


Changes in eating habits during Ramadan, due to fasting, lead to a slowdown in metabolism. Reduced meal frequency during this period slows metabolism, and rapid, irregular eating patterns following Ramadan may cause weight gain and health issues. However, this period presents a unique opportunity to adopt healthier eating habits. Reviving your metabolism and embracing a healthy lifestyle is within your control!

Beware of Extended Breakfasts!  Although long breakfasts on the first day of Ramadan Eid can be enjoyable, they may lead to unintentional excess calorie intake. Include foods containing protein such as cheese and eggs, healthy fats such as olives, and fibrous vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers and greens in your breakfast. When craving sweets, opt for fresh fruits or low-calorie fruit jams instead of syrupy desserts. To maintain blood sugar balance, choose whole wheat or rye bread instead of white bread, pastries, or pies.

Ease Your Stomach with Light Meals: Consuming heavy, fatty meals after fasting can trigger digestive issues such as reflux, nausea, and constipation. Prefer baking or air frying instead of frying in oil to ease digestion. Limit spicy and tomato-based dishes to protect your stomach health.

Healthy Alternatives to Sweet Cravings: During Ramadan Eid, choose healthier options to satisfy increased sweet cravings. Instead of sugary desserts, enjoy fresh or dried fruits sprinkled with cinnamon or paired with nuts like almonds or walnuts. If sweets are irresistible, opt for milk-based or light fruit desserts.

Don't Neglect Fluid Intake: Fluid loss occurs during Ramadan, with daily fluid consumption dropping to about one liter. Post-Ramadan, increasing water intake to 2.5-3 liters daily can accelerate metabolism and restore fluid balance.

Increase Salad Intake and Regularize Meal Times: Fiber-rich salads increase satiety and regulate bowel movements. Try to eat at least 5-6 hours before going to bed to avoid indigestion and improve sleep.

Incorporate Physical Activity into Your Life: Physical activity after Ramadan plays a significant role in restoring your metabolism. Enjoy the spring energy by incorporating 30-minute walks 3-4 times a week, enhancing your energy levels and mood.

Long-Term Health, Not Quick Fixes! Weight gain after Ramadan is common, prompting many to turn to detox waters or popular detox diets for quick weight loss. However, the body's natural detox mechanisms are already highly effective, and these methods mainly cause fluid loss, not actual fat loss. Adopt balanced eating habits and regular physical activity for sustainable and healthy weight management.

Use the post-Ramadan period as an opportunity to transition to a healthier lifestyle. Take balanced nutritional steps to protect your health!