By Montathar Watan
TEHRAN, June 21 (KUNA) -- During the holy month of Ramadan, most Iranians have gotten into the habit of breaking the day's fast with appetizers before indulging in a nutrient-dense meal a while later.
Typically, Iranians would opt for tea along with dates, or sugar cubes coupled with cheese and vegetables for the fast-breaking meal (Iftar), eschewing heavier dishes that could shock the digestive system after long hours of fasting.
Moreover, most mosques across the Islamic Republic's sprawling capital usually distribute some tea and dates to allow those not lucky enough to join their families for Iftar, to break their fast.
Speaking to KUNA, Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Kamal Husseni said that "after a fasted state, the stomach cannot tolerate calorically dense foods, so lighter meals are a much healthier alternative." He also pointed out that the human body yearns for nutrient-rich foods after an arduous fast, noting that most people need at least 2,500 calories per day. (end) mw.nam