The festive season of Eid al-Adha is a time of joy and celebration for all Muslims around the world. This year, Eid-al-Adha in India will be celebrated on June 29 while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will celebrate on June 28. Eid al-Adha marks the end of the annual Haj pilgrimage to Mecca. As part of this celebration, many families gather to enjoy a special meal known as the Bakrid feast. While it’s easy to overindulge in all that delicious food, it’s important to remember that moderation is key to ensuring good health. Here are some tips to make your Bakrid feast both tasty and healthy.
choose lighter pieces of meat
When choosing meat items for your Bakrid feast, it’s best to choose leaner pieces such as skinless chicken breast or lean ground beef. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavor without consuming too much fat or cholesterol.
choose whole grain options
Instead of white bread or rice, choose whole grain options such as brown rice or whole wheat flatbread. Whole grains are rich in dietary fiber which helps regulate your digestive system and makes you feel full for longer.
load up on vegetables
Vegetables are a great way to add flavor, texture and color to your meals while keeping them healthy. Whether it’s adding leafy vegetables like spinach or kale to your salad or roasting root vegetables like potatoes or carrots on the side, adding lots of vegetables to your feast will add vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
don’t eat deep fried food
It’s hard to resist those tempting deep-fried treats, but try to limit them as much as possible. Instead, try baking, grilling or roasting as healthier cooking methods that make food enjoyable and tastier.
make it a balanced meal
A balanced plate should contain all the essential food groups such as proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables. So when planning your menu for the Bakrid feast, make sure all these food groups are represented in equal amounts to get the most health benefits from your meal.
limit your sugar intake
While sweets are the main attraction of any festive meal, it is important to remember that too much sugar can cause a spike in your blood sugar levels followed by a drop in energy. Try to limit the amount of sugar you consume and choose healthier options like fresh fruit or yogurt instead.
stay hydrated
It’s easy to forget about staying hydrated while enjoying a luxurious feast, but staying properly hydrated throughout the day will help you feel full faster and prevent overeating later in the day. So don’t forget to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water during your festive meal.