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UAE - The Ministry of Health and Prevention, represented by the Department of Education and Health Promotion, launched recently a health awareness campaign across emirates for the Holy Month of Ramadan. To run until June 8, 2017, the campaign has been designed to increase community awareness on healthy lifestyles and will include free medical check-ups and distribution of educational materials, among others.
Fun and exciting activities were held in various markets in Mezher and Al Warqaa, shopping centers in Dubai during the launch, followed by Sharjah Cooperative Societies and Ajman Markets Association in Al Jaraf and Rumaila, government departments in Umm Al Quwain, and the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
During the activities, a healthy cooking corner was set-up and health booklets were distributed to educate people about the importance of smart shopping based on healthy principles during Ramadan. The booklets also list down foods with high nutritional value such as whole wheat bread and breakfast cereals. The materials also advise individuals to replace oily fried foods with baked or grilled foods, minimize the use of salt, and avoid dehydration.
Dr. Fadila Mohammed Sharif, Director of the Department of Education and Health Promotion, reiterate the importance of public health awareness, healthy lifestyles, nutritional balance, and less intake of high-calorie foods, especially for patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes and high and low blood pressure.
Dr. Sharif noted that fasting during Ramadan provides an opportunity to adopt healthy behaviors and transform them into a better lifestyle such as quitting cigarettes, having a balanced healthy diet, and engaging in physical activities. She urged individuals to get rid of their unhealthy habits, including drinking sweetened beverages and excessive eating, and replace them with healthy fruits such as dates and drinks low-fat milk and water to avoid indigestion and weight problems.
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© Press Release 2017
