Here’s what an IPB University doctor has to say about the correct order of consumption during Iftar

The month of Ramadan marks the call to pray for all Muslims around the world. What else if not the prayer that is listed in the pillars of Islam, namely fasting.

After enduring all day, the most awaited thing of course is the time to break the fast. Muslims flock to prepare iftar dishes, from cooking at home to hunting for takjil with the tradition of ‘ngabuburit’.

But, do we know the importance of the order of eating when breaking the fast? IPB University Faculty of Medicine lecturer, Dr Widya Eka Nugraha, MSiMed, a biomedical expert in cell and molecular biology revealed the order of food consumption and its content for the body.

According to Dr Widya, the main purpose of breaking the fast is to obtain energy and fluid intake that is lost during fasting. When breaking the fast, she recommends eating foods that can quickly release energy and sufficient hydration.

So, what is the right order of consumption for breaking the fast? Let’s see Dr Widya’s explanation below:

1. Dates and Water
Dates should be eaten when breaking the fast because they are a source of energy and are also high in fibre, calcium and iron. However, Dr Widya warns that dates have a high sugar content, so it is still not good if consumed excessively.

“Eating 3-7 dates when breaking the fast is the ideal amount. Fresh fruits can be consumed in sufficient quantities when breaking the fast as an ideal source of energy,” she explains.

In addition, drink enough water when breaking the fast. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses between iftar and suhoor. When breaking the fast, it would be better to drink 1-2 glasses.

2. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates such as rice, bread, potatoes and so on can be consumed in small amounts (about 1/4 of a plate). It is not recommended to eat 1 full serving when breaking the fast as it may cause digestive problems such as bloating or discomfort in the stomach.

3. Meat and others
When breaking the fast, it is also good to eat foods high in protein, such as lean meat, skinless chicken, fish, eggs, peas, and low-fat dairy products. This will make the stomach full quickly so as not to overdo it when breaking the fast.

Some things that should be avoided when breaking the fast are eating processed foods and foods high in salt. This was also conveyed by Dr Widya, “It should be avoided because it can increase the risk of dehydration during fasting.”

“Also avoid drinks that contain caffeine and sweet drinks such as syrup, juice with sugar or sweetened condensed milk. Do not eat too much when breaking the fast, but also do not eat too much after tarawih,” she explained.

She suggests allowing at least two hours between dinner and bedtime to avoid indigestion. (Rosita/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)