“Fasting allows the body to naturally detoxify. But the benefit of fasting cannot be maximized if [one] does not pay attention to their food intake during sahur (pre-dawn meals), iftar (breaking the fast) and dinner,” said nutrition consultant Rita Ramayulis, as quoted by Antara news agency on Monday.

Rita says there are five types of food and drink that must be avoided during sahur and iftar.

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Fried foods

This type of food will cause the digestive system to work harder and also make the body easily tired. “When fasting, the body wants to detoxify, to work lightly,” she said. She recommends that Muslims consume fried foods only during dinner and not during iftar.

Drinks containing sucrose only

Rita says one needs to quickly increase sugar levels in their body during iftar. Drinks that only contain sucrose, such as tea with sugar, are not be enough as the body also needs glucose and fructose. Consuming dates is advised as the fruit contains glucose, fructose, sucrose, as well as plenty of fiber, kalium, potassium and vitamin A. Another suggestion is to drink mango, banana or papaya juices.

Fat-saturated foods

During pre-dawn meals, one is advised to consume foods that can be processed slowly and gradually by the body. Rita recommends foods with low fat proteins so that the body will not tire easily.

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Foods that will induce gastric acid

It is best to refrain from consuming food or drink that will induce gastric acid during pre-dawn meals or iftar, for example spicy or sour foods and drinks that contain caffeine.

Foods that induce gases

Avoid eating food that will induce gases, such as jackfruit, durian and carbonated drinks. Rita also advises those who are fasting to avoid food that is high in calories and may cause dehydration by disturbing the detoxification process. (mas/kes)