Islam is not just a religion but also a way of life for many Muslims. The most glaring component of any Muslim’s diet is halal food, which means food that is permissible to consume according to Sharia Law. But did you know that there are also recommended foods which hold great benefits?
Muslims are encouraged to live a healthy life in order to remain physically and mentally fit. This sunnah food was actually mentioned in the Quran and even consumed by the Prophet SAW in his daily life. If you’re looking to improve your diet, try this sunnah food that boasts both nutritional and spiritual value.
Dates
This sunnah food might not come as a surprise to you. Commonly eaten by Muslims especially during Ramadan, dates are actually a great source of vitamins and minerals. Dates are so nutritious that even the Prophet SAW used to plant date trees himself.
Dates are low in fat and are a great source of dietary fibre, vitamin A, potassium, calcium and many more. They are also free from cholesterol! Muslims are encouraged to consume dates in odd numbers, a common practice by the Prophet SAW and his companions.
“He who eats seven ‘Ajwa dates every morning will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them.” [Bukhari]
”Honey is a remedy for every illness and the Quran is a remedy for all illness of the mind, therefore I recommend to you both remedies, the Quran and honey.“ [Bukhari]
Honey
Many consider honey the ultimate food since it has seemingly countless internal and external benefits. As a great source of energy, this sunnah food helps strengthen the stomach, aids in digestion, eliminates phlegm and even reduces muscle fatigue. Honey is also used to treat wounds, minor burns and is known to be good for your skin.
Figs
Figs are undeniably a fruit from paradise. This sunnah food can be eaten both fresh and dried. Figs boast many health benefits and are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as iron. Being a good source of fibre, figs also help alleviate constipation and helps you feel full. Figs are a good cure for stomach disorders and piles.
“It is also mentioned in the Noble Quran Allah Almighty says: “I swear by the fig and the olive.” [Surah At-Tin]
Talbina
Talbina is a soothing broth made from ground barley that has many healing properties. It is mentioned by Ibn al-Qayyim in his great work on “The Prophetic Medicine” and there are many Ahadith on the merits of talbina for the sick and grieving person. Ibn al-Qayyim described talbina as a thin soup with the consistency of yoghurt (laban), from where it’s name is derived.
He said that it was a broth made from barley flour together with the husks, and it is similar to barley water but the difference is that barley water is cooked with whole barley but talbina is cooked with ground barley. Therefore it is more beneficial because it can be digested easier and the nutrients are penetrated into the system quicker.
He also said that “it has relaxation for the heart of the sick person”, it is nutritious and filling, and it warms and soothes the stomach, helping to lessens sorrows and to regain health. It can also be effective in maintaining bowel regularity.
Medicinal Benefits of Barley
Barley is the core ingredient of talbina and for all the good reasons as well. Barley is a member of the grass family Poaceae and an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. The reason why it is so beneficial in contrast to other grains such as wheat is because it contains abundance of beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are comprised of β-D-glucose polysaccharide group which are highly effective in reinforcing the body’s immune system.
Watermelon
Watermelon is typically a delicious and cooling treat especially for those living in warmer climates. Yet, many Muslims don’t realise that watermelon is actually a sunnah food with a host of benefits.
It helps relieve pain and muscle soreness, boost immunity, prevent acid reflux and kidney stones. Watermelon is also known to improve your eye health and protect your skin. According to his companions, the Prophet SAW would consume watermelon with ripe dates.
“The hotness of this substance (dates) neutralises the coolness of that (watermelon).”
[Abu Dawood and At-Tirmidhi]
Milk
Found in almost every household, milk is a definite staple in every person’s refrigerator. Milk is undoubtedly a great source of nutrients such as calcium, protein, potassium and many more. Its high nutrition value aids in making your bones and teeth healthy while repairing muscles and maintaining healthy red blood cells. Got Milk?
“There is instruction for you in cattle. From the contents of their bellies, between that which is to be eliminated (from the animal’s body) and (its) blood, We give you pure milk to drink, easy for drinkers to swallow.” [Surat an‐Nahl: 66]
There is no great way of improving your daily diet than by consuming this blessed sunnah food. The best part is that they are easily found in any supermarket. Perhaps, some have already found a way onto your shelves. Nothing like a healthy body to supplement your spiritual health.
Extensive use of olive oil and olive leaves is cited in the Holy Bible as a natural healer. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said “Eat olive oil and massage it over your bodies since it is a holy (Mubarak) tree”. He also stated that olive oil cures 70 diseases.
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