Eating three dates and a glass of water is enough to break the fast. This Sunnah exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad is quite simple and easy to apply in daily routines during Ramadan fasting.
The privilege of breaking the fast with dates was also explained by Ustaz Hanan Attaki. He said that the way the Prophet Muhammad broke his fast is not mandatory to be imitated but is expected to motivate us to break our fast in a simple but healthy way.
"The Prophet liked to break his fast with rutob, wet dates, the food that Allah gave Maryam when she gave birth," explained Hanan.
If wet dates are not available, they can be replaced with tamar, or dry dates. But if you don't find them, breaking the fast with water is enough.
"This shows that the Prophet's breaking the fast was healthy, simple but happy," he said.
Dates do have a number of nutrients that are good for health. Especially to replace energy quickly after more than 12 hours of fasting. Here are six reasons why eating dates is enough when breaking the fast.
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High Nutrients
Most of the nutritional content in dates are carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. Therefore, dates are an ideal food to increase energy quickly. Although sweet and high in carbohydrates, dates, especially dried ones, also have important vitamins and minerals.
As quoted from Health Line, a 100 gram serving of dates contains carbohydrates, protein, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron and vitamin B6. In addition, dates are also high in antioxidants that help maintain a healthy body.
Rich in Fiber
In 100 grams of dates, helps meet the daily fiber needs of 7 grams. The Institute of Medicine in the United States recommends an intake of 39 grams per day for men and 25 grams for women. The rest you can get from other fruits and vegetables.
The fiber in dates is useful for controlling blood sugar levels. In addition, dates also contain a low glycemic index so that sugar levels do not spike drastically when consumed.
Also read: 7 Benefits of Consuming Dates for the Body When Breaking the Fast Dried dates.
Sources of Natural Sugar
Dates are a source of fructose, a type of natural sugar commonly found in fruit. Natural sugar is healthier than refined sugar. Therefore it is better consumed for health. But it should be noted that dates are also high in calories, around 277 calories in a 100 gram serving. Should not consume excessively, only as needed.
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Good for Bone Health
Dates contain boron which can strengthen bones. In addition, dates are also proven to be rich in phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. A group of minerals that contribute to bone strength and prevent osteoporosis or brittle bones.
Also read: Dates Infused Water Vs Dried Dates, Which Is Healthier? Wet Dates.
Maintain Digestive Health
The high fiber content in dates is beneficial for maintaining digestive health. Adequate fiber consumption can prevent constipation and smooth bowel movements. Research published in the British Journal of Nutrition shows that people who eat enough fiber, especially those from dates, have a healthier digestive system.
Provides a Long Lasting Feeling
of Fullness The natural fiber and sugar content provides a feeling of fullness that lasts longer. That is why we already feel quite full even though we only eat a few dates when breaking the fast. The energy also does not disappear quickly so that it can block the stomach until it is time for the main meal after the Isha or Tarawih prayers.
Dangerous food according to Islam
