As Eid approaches this weekend, there is the much-awaited Eid al-Fitr meal. This involves a large meal, with many different dishes and treats. However, not all of these options are the best for pregnant women — and so it is important to make sure you know what to avoid and what to go for during this meal! 

Avoid excessive sugar

We aren’t saying to completely cut out sugar, however it is important to watch how much you are consuming. It can be easy to get carried away with the celebrations, particularly as many of the options are sweet treats such as layer cakes, tufahija, lokum and cambaabur. 

Sugary drinks with a lot of syrup or added sugar are easy ways to unknowingly consumer large amounts of sugar in one sitting, which is not good for you or for your baby. 

Therefore, try to be a bit more mindful, and really think about what you are putting in to your body! 

Drink enough water 

With all the focus often on the food, many do not even realise that they are actually thirsty instead of hungry. Drinking a big glass of water before the meal, and making sure to stay hydrated throughout the day will help to curb cravings, and help you to make the right choices for you and your baby. 

If fasting, get back into a regular exercise routine

Many people when fasting decide to take a break from many of their daily activities, often including regular exercise. If this describes you, then it is important to get back into a regular exercise routine. This can be as simple as setting a daily step target, relaxing in the evening with yoga, swimming, or whatever form of exercise you feel most comfortable with. 

Of course, do not push yourself too hard — but being pregnant is not an excuse to sit around all day and do nothing! Exercise is brilliant for your health and also your child’s.

Sunnah foods that are good for pregnant women:

1. Dates — these are a wonderful natural source of sugar, if you are craving something sweet
2. Olives — olives are a brilliant source of healthy fats, and also a delicious snack. They contain a lot of omega-3 fatty acids which aid in child development, as well as keeping you healthy. 
3. Figs — Again, great if you want something sweet, figs also are really good for your digestive system 

Eid al-Fitr is a time to relax and celebrate with your family and friends — so do take the time to do this! Keeping your stress levels to a minimum and trying to enjoy your pregnancy is so important in keeping yourself and your baby healthy! Endless worrying can be harmful — so we hope these few easy tips can help you to sit back and have a lovely Eid! 

Eid Mubarak from all of us at ScreenMe. 

Jessica Hobbis