uae-experts-urge-muslims-to-switch-to-sustainable,-healthier-diets-for-a-greener-ramadan

According to dieticians and experts in the United Arab Emirates, the holy month of Ramadan is a “great opportunity” to change one’s lifestyle to one that is more environmentally friendly, sustainable, healthy, and waste-free.

Over 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide commemorate Ramadan, the holiest month on the Islamic calendar, by fasting from sunrise to dusk as a sign of devotion and spirituality.

Ramadan presents a wonderful opportunity to think about switching to a “green lifestyle,” which is resource-saving, non-polluting, and environmentally friendly, she told Al Arabiya English. “The green lifestyle is attaining sustainable development and raising the standard of living.”

She advised Muslims to reduce and discontinue their use of fast food and steer clear of overeating. The dietitian advised Muslims who wish to lead a greener lifestyle to eat more seasonal and locally available vegetables and fruits, add more beans and lentil soup to iftar in place of high-saturated-fat poultry and pork, and always break their fast with soup and salad.

She advises Muslims to substitute vegetable-based cooking oil for ghee, butter, and cheese, as well as fresh fruits, dates, and dried fruits for high-calorie sweets, and honey, maple syrup, date syrup, and molasses for white sugar.