Ramadan in the Arab countries is associated with a number of customs and traditions. Food is an essential part of the holy month; however, many Ramadan foods and beverages are considered unhealthy and are said to be the cause of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. 

The following is a list of the most popular Ramadan foods, the number of calories they have, and the time required to burn them: 

TIPS

• Luqaimat: 62 calories per piece burned by 11 minutes of walking

• Beef sambosa: 130 calories per piece burned by 24 minutes of walking.

• Tamees: 210 calories per quarter portion burned by 17 minutes of running.

• Three stuffed dates: 90 calories burned by 17 minutes of walking

• Small pizza: 320 calories per piece burned by 58 minutes of walking.

Health care specialists of Bupa Arabia’s Tebtom program highlighted the importance of reducing the negative impact of Ramadan foods on public health and the need to follow tips that help in eating different types of foods without feeling deprived and in a healthy manner. Here are their tips:

THELIST

• Calculate calories and daily needs, and select foods and quantities accordingly.

• Replace fried foods with roasting or cooking in an electric kettle.

• Replace the sweeteners with honey. Fruit syrup can also be used as a sweetener.

• Replace soft drinks with natural juices.

• Add natural fruits to your diet instead of other sweets.