Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time of celebration and togetherness, but it can also be a time of indulgence and unhealthy eating habits. To maintain a healthy lifestyle during this festive season, it's important to make mindful choices when it comes to food.
Here are some tips on how to eat healthy during Hari Raya Aidilfitri:
1️⃣ Eat in small portions sizes or quantities
Eating in small portions is a healthy habit that can benefit us in many ways, especially during festive seasons like Hari Raya. One of the main advantages of eating in small portions is that it can help us to control our portion sizes and prevent overeating. During Hari Raya, it is common to be surrounded by an abundance of delicious foods and drinks that can be tempting to indulge in excessively. By eating in small portions, we can still enjoy the festive treats without going overboard and feeling bloated or uncomfortable afterward
2️⃣ Choose low-calorie foods
Choosing low-calorie food during Hari Raya can help maintain a healthy diet and prevent excessive weight gain. It is essential to choose foods that are nutrient-dense, which means they provide a lot of nutrients for relatively few calories. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are naturally low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid deep-fried and high-fat foods such as serunding, ketupat, and rendang, as they are typically high in calories and saturated fat. Instead, choose dishes that are grilled, boiled, or steamed, such as grilled chicken or fish, boiled vegetables, and steamed rice.
3️⃣ Choose high-fiber foods
Choosing high-fiber foods is a smart choice during Hari Raya as they help you feel fuller for longer, which can prevent overeating. Some good high-fiber options include whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa, as well as vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes. These foods also tend to be lower in calories than other options like fried foods and sugary snacks, which can help you maintain a healthy weight during the festive season. Additionally, high-fiber foods are beneficial for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels
4️⃣ Limit the intake of sweet and fatty foods such as dodol
One way to limit the intake of sweets and fatty foods is to practice portion control. Instead of filling up on large portions of rich foods, try to eat smaller amounts and savor the flavors. Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help to fill up the stomach and reduce the urge to overeat. Another way to limit the intake of unhealthy foods is to choose healthier alternatives.
5️⃣ Choose fresh fruits as snacks or desserts
Choosing fresh fruits as snacks or desserts during Raya is a great way to indulge in something sweet and healthy at the same time. Fresh fruits are great choices as they are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. These fruits are also a great source of hydration, which is especially important during the hot and humid weather of Raya season. Other healthy snack options include nuts and seeds, like almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds, which are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
6️⃣ Limit the intake of high-salt foods
Hari Raya is a time for celebration and feasting, and traditional snacks like kerepek pisang and kerepek ubi are often enjoyed during this festive period. While these snacks are delicious, they are often high in calories, salt, and fat. As such, it is important to consume them in moderation and balance them out with healthier options.
One way to limit your intake of high-calorie snacks is to practice portion control. Instead of eating a whole bag of kerepek pisang, try to limit yourself to a small handful at a time. You can also choose to share a bag with friends and family to avoid overindulging.
7️⃣ Drink plain water instead of carbonated or sweetened drinks
Drinking plain water is always a great choice for staying hydrated during festive occasions like Raya. Carbonated drinks and sugary drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices may contain high amounts of sugar and calories, which can be detrimental to your health if consumed in excess.
Not forgetting, we are happy to provide you with a list of Kuih Raya and their respective calorie counts as well as the KKM Guideline to eat during Hari Raya so that you can make informed choices during Raya!
In conclusion, Hari Raya Aidilfitri doesn't have to mean sacrificing your healthy eating habits. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the festive season while still maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.
Happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri!
