Although Ramadan is the month were Vimto and tang is preferred in most houses, special drinks like gamar-deen, baithan, and sa7lab, also start to appear. I suggest that you all make leban your top choice this Ramadan, along side milk and other dairy products. They are a rich source of calcium (Ca), which has a lot of benefits for our bodies like strengthening our bones and teeth.
Studies have shown that adequate calcium intake helps in the prevention of some diseases such as colon cancer and hypertension (high blood pressure). In my practice I often meet a lot of people who just refuse to drink milk. This has been a major concern for me especially for females who are more prone to bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Females must also increase their calcium intake during pregnancy and lactation; often they don’t keep up with their body demands. During Ramadan, classic options such as leban, yoghurt, mhalbeya, custard and other dairy rich options, you can enjoy having your calcium intake with each meal.
Last but not least, always remember that an adult person needs three rich calcium sources every day.
Enjoy your food, and stay healthy
Sara Al-Kandary | Nutrition Specialist
