UMM Medical Faculty lecturer emphasizes to consume balanced and protein-containing meals when breaking the fast (Photo: Yafi PR) |
Various iftar menus became a tempting option. Unfortunately, not all food that has a delicious taste is good for iftar. Some of the favorite food for Indonesian society, such as gorengan (trans: fried food), became a menu that should be avoided. dr. Fatimah Masyhur, a lecturer from the Medical Education Study Program of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang Medical, conveys that gorengan can interfere with blood pumping systems.
"Gorengan contain lots of flour with high calories and the oil is not good for the body. The bad impact on health, if it consumed in the long term will affect our body's work systems, such as cardiovascular or blood pumping," she explained.
Hence, Fatimah also emphasized the importance of avoiding foods that contains a lot of sugar and high or saturated fat content, as well as foods or drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea and coffee.
Protein is also an important nutrient needed to build and repair body tissue, including muscles, skin, and hair. Moreover, protein also has a role in maintaining fluid balance in the body, helping produce enzymes and hormones, and strengthening the immune system.
Fatima also emphasized that the needs of protein each person is different. It is based on their age, gender, physical activity, and health condition. Therefore, we should consume protein from various animal and vegetable sources in suitable proportions.
As for those who have certain diseases, they must avoid certain foods. For example, gout sufferers should avoid grapes, shrimp, pineapple, and nuts. Meanwhile, for people who suffer from diabetes mellitus, foods containing high glucose should be avoided, like fast food and others.
"We also need to avoid modern foods such as fast food or junk food when breaking the fast because they contain high carbohydrates which can increase blood glucose quickly. So the right choices for breaking the fast are carbohydrates, protein, vegetables, and fruit according to the portion. Likewise with vitamins and minerals," she said.
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The choice of drinks when breaking the fast must also be considered a lot. Fatimah appealed to people to avoid caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee. Even if you have to and there are no other drinks, she suggests reducing the portion or adjusting the time you drink it.
"Caffeine in the stomach will cause discomfort, especially for people with stomach acid. Finally, for people who take medication regularly, don't forget to always consult a doctor about how to take medication during fasting. Even though fasting, health must still be prioritized," she concluded. (put/ru/wil)