(MENAFN- The Peninsula) DOHA: Patients with heart problems should pay attention to the amount of salt they consume during Ramadan, says an expert.
“High salt consumption is a major threat as it leads to high blood pressure and increases thirst. Raised blood pressure can lead to water retention and negatively affect heart health,” said Ghazi Dararkeh, Nutrition Supervisor, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
He urged people to show restraint when eating Arabic sweets such as pastries, including Ktaev, Kunafa and Ghoriba, as they contain large amounts of sugar and fat. He advised patients with heart diseases to follow some food habits during Ramadan, including to be aware of eating too much high-fat food which can damage the arteries by depositing harmful low density cholesterol, partially or fully blocking them and causing various types of clots.
He provided tips: Consume a diet that is healthy for the heart. For example, eat fish instead of red meat because fish does not contain harmful fats. It contains a healthy fat called Omega 3 which is important for a healthy heart and the arteries. Use good vegetable oils like olive oil instead of other fats as they contain Omega fats which are good for the arteries. Eat vegetables and fruit daily - fresh or cooked - because they contain vitamins and minerals and high amounts of fiber. Heart patients are also advised to eat brown bread instead of white bread.
Do light exercise such as walking every day before breakfast for up to an hour to stimulate blood circulation and help maintain a healthy weight.
“Ramadan can be a challenging time for many people, as their usual eating routine changes significantly. It is important for patients with heart conditions to carefully plan the food consumed to ensure they enjoy a healthy Ramadan,” said Dararkeh.
Dararkeh said dialysis patients should also pay attention to the food they eat to stay healthy when fasting.
“Patients on dialysis can face health problems during Ramadan if they fail to follow a healthy diet and fast correctly.
“It is important that they are aware of what constitutes a healthy diet and what does not.
“I would advise any dialysis patients who are unsure of the best foods to eat to consult their dietitian for advice before fasting,” Dararkeh said.
Tips: Eat enough protein each day at Iftar and Suhoor as advised by your dietitian.
Follow the basic rules of good nutrition and consume fluids only within the recommended limits i.e. around one litre to one-and-a-half litres per day to prevent dehydration. It is also important to ensure that food is not too salty to avoid high blood pressure and feeling thirsty when fasting.
Avoid potassium-rich foods like dates, bananas, oranges, mangoes, tomatoes, potatoes and okras frequently eaten during Ramadan.
Avoid potassium-rich juices and drinks such as Kamaruddin, orange and mango juices, among others.
Try to eat non-fatty dishes and ensure food is cooked in a healthy way by boiling and grilling rather than frying. Ensure moderation when eating nut-rich desserts such as Kataef, which should not be consumed daily.
Consume sources of calcium in the required quantities daily to maintain healthy bones.
The Peninsula