As Ramadan approaches, smokers and caffeine lovers face adjustments to their daily routines due to fasting. Specialists encourage utilizing this month to cut back on smoking and stimulants, emphasizing the need for hydration and physical activity. Smoking immediately after Iftar can increase stroke risk, thus promoting healthier habits during this period is essential.
During Ramadan, many individuals face challenges as they transition from their usual habits of consuming coffee, tea, and smoking to a period of fasting. This adjustment may lead to increased stress and headaches for some. Experts recommend that smokers and avid consumers of stimulants adopt strategies to manage this change effectively.
Dr. Marwa Al-Husseini, a general practitioner from Egypt, highlights the health benefits of fasting but acknowledges its potential to disrupt mood among those reliant on these substances. She encourages making Ramadan an opportunity to cut back on smoking and stimulant consumption, particularly caffeine-rich coffee. Overindulgence after Iftar can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure and digestive problems.
Al-Husseini further stresses the importance of adequate hydration during fasting hours to prevent dehydration. She advises limiting tea intake to no more than three cups after Iftar, favoring green tea, and incorporating nuts into one’s diet. Regular physical activity is also recommended to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and headaches.
Dr. Fouad Ouda, President of the European-Middle Eastern Medical Association, warns against smoking, urging smokers to quit and reduce their cigarette intake during Ramadan. He explains that smoking right after Iftar can significantly elevate stroke risks due to increased blood viscosity and impaired circulation, exacerbated by a prolonged fast.
The doctor notes that smoking right after breaking the fast introduces harmful substances into the bloodstream, which may hinder digestion and induce other health complications. As such, Ramadan presents an ideal occasion to decrease cigarette usage or entirely quit the habit for long-term health advantages.
In summary, the fasting month of Ramadan can pose significant challenges for smokers and caffeine consumers. Experts recommend using this time as a chance to reduce dependency on these substances to avoid adverse health effects. Adequate hydration, moderate intake of stimulants, and regular exercise are essential strategies to help individuals navigate these changes and improve their overall well-being.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo