One of the common misconceptions practiced by many during Ramadan is going to sleep immediately after having the suhoor meal. Experts have warned of the dangers associated with this habit and advise leaving a sufficient gap between suhoor and sleep to prevent the body from being susceptible to various illnesses. Nutrition experts emphasized the importance of staying awake for a while and engaging in some activities before sleeping to avoid adverse effects on the body’s vital functions.
According to nutrition and obesity consultant Dr. Iman Fikry, suhoor has many benefits, provided that one does not overeat and that the meal consists of light foods such as yogurt, cheese, and eggs. This meal provides the body with the energy it needs throughout the fasting hours. However, one should not sleep immediately after having suhoor, as this can negatively impact overall health and lead to weight gain.
Dr. Fikry elaborated in statements to "Sky News Arabia" the key health risks of sleeping right after suhoor, including the potential development of heart, liver, and colon diseases. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals remain awake for one to two hours after suhoor to allow the body adequate time to digest the food, especially for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, to avoid inflammation or bloating.
The nutritionist also warned against consuming fried foods during suhoor, emphasizing that they cause bloating and indigestion, leading to a feeling of discomfort throughout the next day's fasting. She pointed out that one of the side effects of sleeping right after suhoor is weight gain, a problem that many face during Ramadan since the blood becomes saturated with energy after eating, and failure to use this energy maintains it in the body as fat, leading to rapid weight gain.
Dr. Fikry continued: "A full stomach affects the lungs and the breathing process, leading to difficulties in breathing while sleeping. Therefore, it is always preferable to have suhoor at least two hours before sleeping. Movement after having the suhoor meal is also recommended to aid in digestion, absorption, tissue building, and stimulating blood circulation in the stomach."
To reduce the feeling of thirst, the nutrition expert advised avoiding foods high in salt, which draw water from cells and cause intense thirst throughout the day. She also suggested some foods that can be consumed before sleeping if necessary, such as yogurt with fruits, preferably berries or strawberries, which both contain vitamin B6 that aids in melatonin production for healthy sleep.
Dr. Fikry added that oatmeal with fruits has high nutritional value and is filling due to whole oats, keeping the faster feeling satiated for a longer time. She noted that dates also have numerous benefits as they are rich in fiber and provide the necessary energy, making it preferable to have several dates with a glass of milk during suhoor.
