Basil Seeds
During Ramzan-ul-Mubarak, Muslims love to try various food items at Iftar, such as fruits that are highly fibrous and rich in liquid content, like melon, papaya, oranges, grapes, and phirni, one of the most loved homemade recipes.
Every edible item has unique nutrient values. Our body needs all the essential components of food, such as minerals, fats, proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, and water. Every food item has its own importance in terms of its composition. Our body needs a balanced diet for proper and normal functioning. We must consume all the basic components of food for proper growth and well-being.
At the same time, Muslims across the world practice fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. The fast starts at dawn and ends at dusk. Muslims believe that fasting cleanses and purifies the body and bestows spirituality upon the soul.
During the month of Ramadan, only two meals are taken: one at Sehri and the second at Iftar. Between Sehri and Iftar, all food and drink are prohibited. Charity is given to needy people, and prayers are performed by Muslims throughout the world during this holy month. Muslims are fond of different dishes prepared at the time of Iftar and Sehri.
Today, I am going to enlighten you about a few benefits of basil seeds, commonly known as Babri Byool in the Kashmiri language. Babri Byool is loaded with proteins, minerals, and other nutrients. Many people do not get adequate amounts of calcium and magnesium; basil seeds can help provide these essential minerals.
Basil seeds help clean the stomach and gut due to the presence of fiber. They may help lower cholesterol by inhibiting its absorption in the gut. Basil seeds are rich in plant compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids.
Flavonoids are antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The preparation of basil seeds is very easy. Soak them in water for 30 minutes, then add some sugar, coconut, and milk for better taste. They help keep you hydrated and keep your stomach full for a long period of time. Health Benefits of Dates
Alhamdulillah! Ramadan starts on the 19th of this month. Muslims in all corners of the world are excited.
Dates are sweet, delicious, and nutritious fruits available throughout the year. They are often used in preparing different mixtures of dry fruits and other delicacies. Dates are primarily cultivated in Saudi Arabia from August to mid-November each year. Apart from Saudi Arabia, they are also grown in Egypt, Iran, the UAE, Pakistan, and several other countries.
During the holy month of Ramadan, the demand for dates rises sharply. Muslims across the world prefer to break their fast with a few dates, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This practice is not only spiritually significant but also provides an instant source of natural energy after a day of fasting. In the market, various types of dates, ranging from low-quality to premium varieties, are available to meet the needs of customers.
Nutritional Value and Fibre Content
Dates are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Their high fibre content helps cleanse the stomach and maintain a healthy digestive system. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a single pitted date contains about 1.6 grams of fibre, which is roughly six percent of the daily recommended intake.
Fibre plays a vital role in digestion. It softens stool, prevents constipation, and reduces the risk of haemorrhoids. It also helps lower levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL), combats obesity, and promotes a healthy colon, reducing the risk of colitis and colon cancer.
A review published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that the insoluble fibre in dates binds to fat and cholesterol, helping remove them from the body.
Heart Health
Eating dates is an excellent way to maintain a healthy heart. Dates are rich in potassium, which helps lower the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Combined with their ability to reduce LDL cholesterol, dates become a heart-friendly superfood. For best results, some experts recommend soaking dates overnight and eating them the next morning.
Rich Source of Essential Minerals and Vitamins
A study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition (2003) described dates as “an almost ideal food,” providing a wide range of essential nutrients. Dates contain at least 15 minerals, several amino acids, and healthy fatty acids, making them beneficial for strengthening bones, preventing diseases like osteoporosis, and keeping the blood strong and healthy.
Here are some key nutrients found in dates:
Potassium: Maintains heart health, builds muscles, and regulates blood pressure.
Copper: Aids in the production of red blood cells, improves iron absorption, and prevents premature ageing.
Magnesium: Reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure, and protects against arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
Selenium: Boosts immunity and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Iron: Essential for producing red blood cells and preventing anaemia.
Vitamin B6: Enhances brain performance and supports muscle function.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Helps convert food into energy and supports nerve function.
Vitamin A: Keeps the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes healthy.
In conclusion, dates are not just a symbol of tradition and faith but also a nutrient-packed superfood that supports overall health. Whether eaten fresh, dried, or soaked, dates remain one of nature’s most complete and beneficial gifts.
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Basil Seeds and Dates Keep You Energetic and Fresh During Ramzan-ul-Mubarak
By: Sahil Manzoor Bhatti
