The Ministry of Health and Prevention, along with experts, have urged adopting balanced healthy practices during Eid Al-Adha, emphasizing the importance of moderation in consuming meat, sweets, and carbohydrates for the sake of health. They highlighted the significance of maintaining physical and mental health to enhance quality of life and achieve biological and mental balance.
The Ministry warned against excessive consumption of Eid sweets, which could lead to digestive disorders and weight gain. They advised replacing regular chocolates with dark chocolates rich in antioxidants that protect body cells, avoiding excessive intake of cakes and biscuits high in trans fats and saturated fats, in addition to steering clear of high-salt meals.
Experts recommended reducing the consumption of red meats and foods rich in cholesterol such as liver and intestines. They emphasized the importance of allocating time for relaxation and rejuvenation, along with practicing meditation exercises and mental alertness for a healthy balance between mind and body.
In terms of physical health, experts highlighted the significance of staying active during the Eid holiday in simple and enjoyable ways, such as walking after meals, engaging in family activities, or standing and stretching to reduce the risks of prolonged sitting.
Dr. Rana Al-Shuja’, a specialist in digestive system and liver diseases, confirmed that Eid Al-Adha witnesses an increase in patient visits due to health problems resulting from excessive consumption of meat, especially red and fatty meats. Common issues include indigestion, acidity, high blood pressure, and increased cholesterol levels, posing risks to patients with chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions.
Eid may, in some cases, become a reason for emergency visits. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet during this period, enjoying the festive atmosphere by diversifying foods in a healthy and balanced manner. The most vulnerable groups are the elderly, diabetics, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome or stomach ulcers, liver and gallbladder patients, and those who do not engage in physical activity after eating.
It is advised to limit meat consumption to one meal per day, avoid fried and fatty foods, refrain from eating meat on an empty stomach, replace some red meats with plant-based or white proteins, and consult a doctor before Eid for patients with chronic illnesses.
Nutrition specialist Leen Khalil Al-Mushni emphasized that improper dietary habits during Eid Al-Adha extend beyond excessive meat consumption to include inadequate water intake, neglecting vegetables, and consuming high-fat meals throughout the day. These practices lead to digestive stress, fat accumulation, lethargy, and bloating. After a heavy fat-rich meal, the body needs time for digestion and light movement like walking, not more food.
It is essential to practice moderation in food consumption, include leafy vegetables and fiber in meals, steer clear of fried foods to maintain health, and enjoy Eid without negative effects. The recommendations include drinking 6 to 8 cups of water daily, having a salad or vegetables with each meal, reducing sweets and carbonated drinks after eating, walking for 20 minutes after meals, and replacing heavy tea post-meal with herbal teas like mint or ginger.