SINGAPORE – Chopping down on sugary drinks and desserts, in addition to making an attempt to give up smoking, are messages that can be pushed out over the subsequent two months as Muslims put together for the fasting interval of Ramadan and celebrations throughout Hari Raya Puasa.
Some goodies, apart from general improved well being, are additionally in retailer for individuals who heed the messages, mentioned the Well being Promotion Board (HPB) on Sunday (March 27).
The Kita Dah Cukup Manis, Kurangkan OK? (We’re candy sufficient, Scale back it OK?) marketing campaign kicked off with a live-streaming session instructing viewers methods to cut back their sugar consumption in meals and drinks.
Chef Mel Dean taught the recipe for a wholesome fruit-infused drink in addition to a wholesome dessert – Bubur Som Som Pandan – to strive throughout Ramadan, which begins on April 2.
Those that buy more healthy meals or drinks to interrupt quick through the fasting month from taking part halal More healthy Eating Programme shops will obtain an unique HPB inexperienced packet set. Some taking part eating places are Seoul Backyard, Stuff’d and Penang Tradition.
Launching the marketing campaign on Sunday, Parliamentary Secretary for Well being Rahayu Mahzam mentioned the time of Ramadan is at all times significant, and that the marketing campaign goals to leverage on the need to train self-control.
As relaxed safe management restrictions kick off on Tuesday (March 29), Madam Rahayu acknowledged that the Muslim group has delay festivities for some time and is worked up to have greater celebrations this yr.
She mentioned: “We’re naturally involved about this, and all of the extra this marketing campaign turns into necessary as a result of it’s about getting folks to take heed to the alternatives they’re making.
“I feel on no account will we wish to restrict the festivities and never let folks get pleasure from assembly their buddies and households, however we additionally wish to encourage them to simply be conscious concerning the selections they make.”
Primarily based on the Nationwide Inhabitants Well being Survey, the general share of Malays with diabetes has elevated from 11.6 per cent in 2017 to 14.4 per cent in 2020.
People who smoke are additionally inspired to take part within the I Stop programme, the place they’re challenged to stay smoke-free for 28 days. Moreover consuming and ingesting, smoking can be prohibited throughout fasting.
This yr, the programme additionally permits people who smoke to appoint a beloved one to be their supporter of their journey to give up smoking.
The general public can join the I Stop Programme at this website.
Some ideas given by HPB to cut back one’s sugar consumption in drinks and desserts are:
– When breaking quick at iftar, begin by ingesting water to hydrate your self and cut back the probabilities of over-indulging.
– When baking cookies or treats, cut back the quantity of white sugar utilized by three-quarters of a cup and use raisins blended in a meals processor in its place.
– Use contemporary fruits as a substitute of frosting to embellish desserts.