Iftar during Ramadan is one of the most anticipated moments of the day. It’s not just about eating; it represents family gatherings, the fasting person's rest after a long day, and the beginning of a spiritual and social atmosphere. However, many families unintentionally make recurring mistakes while preparing iftar, affecting health, time, budget, and even the enjoyment of the holy month. In this guide, we explore the most common iftar mistakes, their causes and effects, and practical ways to avoid them.
1. Overloading the Table with Too Many Dishes
Cause:
Traditions and habits
Belief that a Ramadan table must be full
Imitating others or social media
Effects:
Food waste: Leads to environmental harm, economic losses, and exacerbates global food insecurity.
Physical strain on the cook: Repetitive, strenuous movements can affect the back, neck, and chest muscles.
Digestive discomfort: Overeating quickly causes indigestion, bloating, heartburn, or constipation.
Budget strain: Increased food costs reduce purchasing power.
Solution:
Limit to 3–4 main dishes.
Follow “less is more” principle.
Plan weekly instead of daily.
2. Overreliance on Fried Foods
Cause:
Easy to prepare
Symbolic connection to Ramadan
Loved by all ages
Effects:
Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
Post-iftar fatigue
Weight gain and obesity
High cholesterol (LDL)
Solution:
Limit fried foods to 2–3 times per week.
Use oven or air fryer.
Offer alternatives: grilled items or light soups.
3. Lack of Preplanning
Cause:
Busy schedules
Spontaneous meal choices
No written plan
Effects:
Wasting time before Maghrib
Stress and exhaustion
Repeating dishes or nutritional imbalance
Solution:
Prepare a weekly iftar schedule.
Make a detailed shopping list.
Pre-prepare and freeze some dishes.
4. Starting Cooking Too Late
Cause:
Afternoon naps
Daytime distractions
Short preparation time
Effects:
Risk of burning food and producing harmful compounds
Loss of focus during the call to prayer (Adhan)
Solution:
Start prep by midday.
Prepare essential ingredients in advance.
Divide tasks into stages.
5. Neglecting Nutritional Value
Cause:
High appetite after fasting
Preference for heavy meals
Misconception that Ramadan is a month of “indulgence”
Effects:
Persistent fatigue
Digestive issues
Vitamin deficiencies
Increased thirst the next day
Solution:
Include vegetables daily.
Balance protein sources.
Reduce salt and spicy seasonings.
Drink water gradually.
6. Serving Desserts Immediately After Iftar
Cause:
Habit
Craving sugar after fasting
Effects:
Sudden blood sugar spikes
Heaviness and bloating
Solution:
Delay desserts for 1–2 hours after iftar.
Occasionally replace with fruits.
Limit portions and designate specific dessert days.
7. Repeating the Same Dishes Daily
Cause:
Ease of preparation
Lack of ideas
Fear of experimenting
Effects:
Food boredom and loss of appetite
Nutritional imbalance
Solution:
Diversify cooking methods.
Try new recipes weekly.
Introduce dishes from different cuisines.
8. Neglecting Soup
Cause:
Focus on main dishes
Belief that soup is not filling
Effects:
Difficult stomach adjustment
Overeating quickly
Solution:
Always start with soup.
Vary types (vegetable, lentil, chicken).
Serve moderate portions.
9. Overindulgence in Ramadan Drinks
Cause:
Ramadan habits
Hot weather
Effects:
Extra calories
Thirst the next day
Blood sugar fluctuations
Solution:
Reduce sugar.
Prioritize water.
Serve natural drinks in moderation.
10. Not Involving the Family in Preparation
Cause:
Desire for control
Not asking for help
Effects:
Loss of Ramadan enjoyment
Pre-iftar stress (“hour of anger”)
Solution:
Distribute tasks.
Involve children in simple activities.
Turn preparation into a fun family activity.
This guide helps families enjoy a healthier, less stressful, and more meaningful Ramadan iftar while avoiding common pitfalls.
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