People who break their fast by smoking may want to read this article.

During the fasting period, the body does two things. First, it increases its production of free radicals that are harmful to our bodies. Second, it decreases production of endogenous antioxidants (antioxidants produced by the body when stimulated by the intake of food).

So, simply speaking, when we break our fast, we need to eat foods that contain exogenous antioxidants (antioxidants not produced by the body but found in foods) to offset the accumulating radicals in our bodies. 

Examples of such foods are fruits and vegetables that include vitamins A, C and E, and combinations of meat or fish to supplement the proteins. 

(Read also: The best way to stop smoking: stop trying)

According to Dr. Saptawati Bardosono, MSc, a clinical nutrition specialist and a lecturer at the University of Indonesia's School of Medicine, cigarettes contain active substances that contribute to doubling the amount of free radicals in the body, as reported by kompas.com. So instead of reducing the amount of radicals already in the body by eating proper meals, smokers actually introduce additional radicals and harm their bodies even more.

"Breaking the fast by smoking can also lower the appetite, making people eat smaller amounts of food," Saptawati added. (sab/kes)

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