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10 Health Tips For Ramadan Fasting

Published

1 year ago

March 13, 2024

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred time for Muslims worldwide. It commences and concludes with the sighting of the crescent moon. Due to the Islamic calendar’s shorter duration compared to the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan shifts earlier by 10–12 days annually, allowing it to traverse all seasons within a 33-year cycle.

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from dawn until sunset, devoting themselves to increased prayers, introspection, and acts of charity.

Taking care of your health during fasting in Ramadan is, however, very important. In this piece, The PUNCH highlights steps to take care of one’s health while fasting

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours, especially during Suhoor and Iftar, to prevent dehydration.

2. Eat Nutritious Foods: Always eat a balanced diet with foods rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables to provide sustained energy throughout the fasting period.

3. Avoid Overeating: While breaking the fast at Iftar, avoid overeating or consuming large amounts of sugary or fatty foods. Opt for moderate portions and balanced meals.

4. Include Suhoor: Have a nutritious pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) that includes complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to provide energy and keep you feeling full throughout the day.

5. Reduce Intake Of Caffeine and Sugary Drinks: Reduce consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages as they can lead to dehydration and energy crashes.

6. Take Short Naps: If possible, take short naps during the day to help alleviate fatigue and maintain energy levels.

7. Exercise Moderately: Engage in light to moderate physical activity, such as walking or gentle stretching, during non-fasting hours to maintain fitness and energy levels. Avoid strenuous exercise during fasting hours.

8. Monitor Health: Pay attention to your body and any signs of dehydration, fatigue, or health issues. Seek medical attention if needed.

9. Get Sufficient Sleep: Aim for adequate sleep during the night to ensure your body’s overall well-being and energy levels during fasting hours.

10. Break Fast Gradually: Start Iftar with dates and water, followed by a light meal, and gradually consume more substantial foods to prevent digestive discomfort.

By taking these steps, Muslims can maintain their health and well-being while fasting.

However, if there are any underlying health conditions or concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

Headline

26-year-old Nigerian Fatally Stabbed In London

Published

8 hours ago

August 5, 2025

Editor

Two individuals have been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 26-year-old Nigerian, Ayowale Aladejana, in New Cross, southeast London.

The Metropolitan Police reports that detectives investigating the fatal stabbing of Ayowale charged a man and woman with murder.

“Ben Wazabanga, 23 (24.10.2001) of Fairfax Road, Bedford was charged with murder and possession of a knife on Monday, 4 August. He was remanded in custody and will appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 4 August.

“Ronique Belfon, 23 (10.05.2002) of Morinsbury Road, Bedford was charged with murder on Monday, 4 August. She was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 4 August,” the report read.

Speaking on the incident, Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who is leading the investigation, was quoted as saying, “Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“I understand this incident will be concerning and we are carrying out a fast-paced and thorough investigation to establish the circumstances. I would encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to us.”

The investigation was reportedly launched after officers were called to reports of a man with stab wounds at a residential address in Monson Road, New Cross, at 19:26hrs on Saturday, August 2.

The officers were said to have responded alongside the London Ambulance Service and medics from London’s Air Ambulance, however, Ayowale died at the scene despite efforts to save him.

The report added that a post-mortem examination conducted on Sunday gave a preliminary cause of death as stab wound to the chest.

Ayowale’s family are also reportedly being supported by specially trained officers.

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Trump Threatens 250% Tariffs On Foreign Pharmaceuticals

Published

9 hours ago

August 5, 2025

Editor

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that upcoming tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals could reach 250 percent, after starting at a lower level, while adding he plans to also unveil fresh duties on foreign semiconductors.

“We’ll be putting (an) initially small tariff on pharmaceuticals, but in one year, one-and-a-half years, maximum, it’s going to go to 150 percent,” Trump said in an interview on CNBC.

“And then it’s going to go to 250 percent because we want pharmaceuticals made in our country,” he added.

In the same interview, Trump said he expects to raise the US tariff on Indian imports “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to the country’s purchases of Russian oil.

While Trump has aimed at products from different countries with varying tariff rates after imposing a 10-percent levy on almost all trading partners in April, these have excluded certain products he planned to target separately.

These sector-specific tariffs have generally come after government investigations that look into the national security concerns surrounding certain imports.

After earlier embarking on probes on imported semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, the Trump administration has signaled plans to wrap up these studies, which could lead to new tariffs.

Already, Trump has slapped steep tariffs of 50 percent on imported steel and aluminum, and also rolled out a separate but lower duty on autos and parts.

AFP

Headline

UK Opens Application For Chevening Scholarships

Published

12 hours ago

August 5, 2025

Editor

The United Kingdom on Tuesday announced that applications for its Chevening Scholarships are officially open, with prospective scholars encouraged to apply between August 5 and October 7, 2025.

The Chevening programme offers fully funded one-year master’s degrees at UK universities to individuals with demonstrated leadership potential and a strong commitment to driving positive change in their home countries and globally.

In a statement released by the British High Commission in Abuja, the Head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Emma Hennessey, described the programme as highly competitive, selecting only the most outstanding candidates from across the world.

“Chevening’s highly competitive selection process ensures that those chosen to become Chevening Scholars or Fellows represent the brightest and most driven individuals from around the world.

“Chevening Alumni use their world-class education, global networks, and confidence gained in the UK to create meaningful, lasting change when they return home, whether by tackling global challenges or making a tangible impact in their own communities.

“If you can clearly demonstrate the skills needed to join them — outstanding leadership, influence, and networking skills — I strongly encourage you to apply.

“If you’re not quite there yet, I encourage you to take the time to build the experience that will make your application competitive,” Hennessey noted.

According to the statement, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, urged Nigerians with leadership potential to take advantage of the opportunity.

“Chevening is more than a scholarship — it is a gateway to a global network of leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” he said.

“Whether your aspirations lie in shaping public policy, launching a business, or addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, the Chevening Scholarship offers a unique opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in the United Kingdom to advance your knowledge and skills.

“While there is no ‘typical’ scholar, we seek individuals with the passion, ideas, and influence to drive meaningful change in Nigeria and beyond.

“Our alumni network includes dynamic professionals across diverse sectors who are making significant contributions in their fields.

“If you have the potential to lead positive change in your community, Nigeria, or globally, I encourage you to submit your application before the 7 October 2025 deadline.

“Apply today and take the first step toward this life-changing experience,” he said.

Applications must be submitted online via chevening.org/apply.

Interested applicants are also encouraged to review available guidance at chevening.org/guidance to determine their readiness for the competitive application process.

Since its launch in 1983, the Chevening programme has supported over 60,000 professionals from over 160 countries and territories.

The scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations.