Your health guide: The importance of natural drinks and fruits for the body

The holy month of Ramadan is no different from any other day when it comes to the need for hydration; in fact, the need to consume natural drinks and fruits to prevent thirst and maintain fluid balance. Choosing healthy and natural alternatives is always the wise decision to protect the body from illness and boost immunity, avoiding processed drinks that lack genuine nutritional value.

Juice consumption culture through time

Since ancient times, successive human civilizations have recognized the therapeutic and nutritional value inherent in nature. In antiquity, people relied on pressing fruits and plants to extract fluids rich in vitamins and minerals, not only for hydration but also as part of alternative medicine and traditional remedies. As societies developed, this practice became an integral part of daily life, particularly in hot regions like the Middle East, where certain drinks such as tamarind, hibiscus, and apricot juice (Qamar al-Din) became associated with religious and social occasions. This historical legacy reflects a deep understanding of the importance of natural ingredients in supporting human health and replenishing energy.

Positive impact: Why choose natural drinks and fruits?

Relying on natural drinks and fruits has a significant impact on individual and community health. Locally, raising awareness of the importance of these beverages helps reduce the incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, which place a heavy burden on healthcare systems. On a broader scale, the shift towards consuming natural products supports local agriculture and reduces the carbon footprint of soft drink and artificially sweetened beverage factories. Nutritionally, these drinks provide antioxidants that combat free radicals, promote heart health, and improve skin radiance, making them a truly valuable long-term health investment.

Popular products versus healthy alternatives

In this context, the Ministry of Health explains that many common products on the market lack even the minimum nutritional value. Among the most prominent of these are flavored and concentrated drinks (both sweetened and unsweetened), which are often diluted with water and have large amounts of sugar added for sweetening, making them a hidden threat to public health.

The best and safest alternative is freshly squeezed juices prepared at home, as this allows for complete control over the ingredients and avoids preservatives. Some of the most recommended healthy options include:

• Hibiscus and pomegranate juice, which is beneficial for heart and blood health.
• Beetroot and berry juice, rich in iron and antioxidants.
• Carrot and orange juice, which boosts immunity and eyesight.
• Lemon and mint juice, refreshing and aids digestion.

Golden tips for preparing healthy juices at home

To ensure maximum benefit, the Ministry of Health offers several tips for preparing healthy juices that protect and promote general health:

• Choose fresh or frozen fruit, and stay away from artificial juice powders that contain artificial colors and flavors.
• Add water or low-fat milk as a base for the smoothie instead of ice cream or cream to reduce calories and fat.
• Avoid adding refined white sugar, and rely entirely on the natural sweetness of the fruit.
• Use the whole fruit with the pulp to increase the dietary fiber content, which helps to increase the feeling of satiety and significantly improve digestion.
• Vary the fruits used to get as many of the different minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants as possible that the body needs daily.