​Eid is a festival celebrated after a month of fasting i.e. Ramadan. 

It’s a time when families come together to pray and celebrate this occasion. Naturally, food is a big part of this celebration.

When Ramadan was approaching many of us not only wanted to implement new changes spiritually, but in terms of our health as well. 

There were many blogs/posts going around on the internet. 

I was asked numerous times about what foods are best to eat for Suhoor and when breaking fast.

Not forgetting what to do about the sweet and fried treats we, as the Cape Malay community share with each other during this period. 

This got me thinking of doing a article of being mindful of your eating habits on Eid day, as most of us wanted to get in gear for a healthier Ramadan but we all seem too fine to eat ourselves into oblivion on Eid day!
After a month of fasting, we return to our normal eating habits. Be aware, overeating and having many varieties of foods may lead to heartburn or indigestion in the beginning as it takes time for the body to adjust to any sudden change in eating habits.
Here are some tips to celebrate Eid in a pleasant and healthier way.
Avoid heavy meals

Meals with a high content of fat and sugar often cause digestive problems on the day, as they take longer to digest and your digestive system now has to get used to working throughout the day as well.
I love our traditional foods like our Breyani’s, Curries etc , but I choose to go for chicken/lean meats and grilled veg first and if there is space, have a bit of the traditional foods thereafter. 

To avoid feeling bloated and lethargic afterwards, try not to have too much carbs. Rather opt for rice, instead of having both rice and potatoe.
Opt for healthier cooking methods and ingredients

To our mom’s, wife’s and sister’s, we appreciate all the work you do for the household and this is where you have the power to make a difference to your family’s special day. Select leaner cuts and remove the visible fat properly before cooking. Use healthy oils. Do not use excessive salt. There are an abundance of herbs and spices rich in antioxidents, vitamins, minerals that will add flavour and aroma to your dishes. 

When making those devine treats, avoid high amounts of condensed milk and be cautious with your use of sugar. Another good idea is to add foods that contain natural sugars such as fruits, dry fruits and honey. 
Watch your portions

Controlling your food portions can help if you divide your plate into three parts. Without getting too technical about diets, as a basic rule,  make sure half your plate is filled with vegetables/salads, a quarter filled with a carbohydrate, such as rice or potatoe ( a complex carb like sweet potatoe is better) and the remaining quarter with lean meats. 
Are those cakes and dessert’s calling your name?

I love something sweet just as much as anyone else and many of us are so fortunate that we have a variety of sweet things to eat on Eid. How about giving this a try? Instead of having a bowl of each dessert and a slice of every cake, why not share your portion with someone? Controlling your portions will lead to not consuming unnecessary calories. 

Water always wins!

Our tables are most likely to be filled with soda’s and juices! With the amount of sugars in juice, it may actually not be a better option as many seem to think! 
Having water throughout the day will make it easy on the digestive system, keep you hydrated and will also curb cravings and overeating.
Wishing you and your loved one’s a blessed Eid!