Essential Health Tips for Smokers and Caffeine Users During Ramadan
As Ramadan begins, individuals typical to caffeine and smoking may face challenges due to fasting. Medical professionals suggest strategies such as reducing smoking and caffeine consumption, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. They warn of health risks, including mood disruptions and strokes, especially when smoking immediately after Iftar.
As Ramadan begins, many individuals accustomed to starting their day with coffee, tea, and smoking must adapt their habits due to fasting. This change can lead to mood fluctuations, stress, and headaches. To manage these transitions, specialists recommend several strategies for smokers and consumers of caffeinated beverages to maintain their well-being during this holy month.
Dr. Marwa Al-Husseini, a general physician from Egypt, emphasizes the positive health effects of fasting, particularly for the digestive system. However, for those who consume significant amounts of stimulants, fasting may lead to mood disturbances. She urges individuals to seize this opportunity to decrease smoking and caffeine intake, especially avoiding high coffee consumption after Iftar, which may induce health issues such as high blood pressure and stomach inflammation.
Similarly, Dr. Al-Husseini cautions against excessive tea consumption as it may lead to increased thirst, urinary problems, and heightened blood pressure. She underscores the necessity of adequate hydration during fasting and recommends limiting stimulant intake post-Iftar to three cups, particularly favoring green tea alongside nutritious nuts.
Additionally, the doctor advocates for regular exercise to mitigate withdrawal symptoms associated with reducing stimulants, such as irritability and headaches. Exercise should ideally occur an hour before or two hours following Iftar to effectively manage calorie intake and fat elimination.
Dr. Fouad Ouda, President of the European-Middle Eastern Medical Association in Italy, warns against the perils of smoking and urges smokers to quit. He advises utilizing Ramadan as a chance to limit cigarette smoking, particularly cautioning against smoking immediately after breaking the fast, as this places individuals at heightened stroke risk.
Dr. Ouda explains that during fasting, the stomach is empty, which increases blood viscosity and slows circulation due to dehydration. Consequently, smoking post-Iftar can facilitate the harmful entry of carcinogenic substances into the bloodstream, which hampers digestion and may lead to serious health complications, including strokes. He advocates for minimizing cigarette consumption during Ramadan and encourages individuals to consider quitting altogether.
In summary, Ramadan presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals who smoke or consume stimulants. Health professionals recommend reducing these habits during the fasting month to improve overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of hydration, moderation in stimulant consumption, and regular physical activity. By recognizing the risks associated with smoking after Iftar, individuals can protect themselves from serious health consequences while embracing the benefits of fasting.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
