Evaluating the effect of suhoor on metabolism, Nutrition Specialist Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu stated, “When one does not have suhoor, the fasting period extends, and the body may increase protein breakdown to meet energy needs. This situation increases the risk of muscle loss, especially when adequate protein is not consumed.”
Hatunoğlu also clarified the belief that suhoor tires the stomach, saying, “A properly planned suhoor does not tire the stomach; on the contrary, it protects it.”
Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu evaluated the importance of observing Suhoor.
Suhoor is the essential meal that prepares the body for prolonged fasting
Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu emphasized that Suhoor is the essential meal that prepares the body for the long fasting period throughout the day, stating, “Protein, fiber, healthy fats, and sufficient fluids consumed during Suhoor help blood sugar levels remain more stable. This reduces sudden hunger pangs, weakness, dizziness, and lack of concentration during the day.”
When one does not have suhoor, the fasting period significantly extends
Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu addressed the effects of fasting without Suhoor on the body, saying, “When one does not have suhoor, the fasting period significantly extends. This can lead to sudden drops in blood sugar, quick fatigue, and loss of concentration during the day. Prolonged fasting can particularly cause a decrease in performance for working individuals.”
If adequate protein is not consumed, the risk of muscle loss increases
Evaluating the effect of Suhoor on metabolism, Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu stated, “When a person does not have suhoor, the fasting period extends, and the body may increase protein breakdown to meet energy needs. This situation increases the risk of muscle loss, especially when adequate protein is not consumed. Including protein-rich foods in Suhoor contributes to the preservation of muscle tissue and a more balanced metabolism throughout the day.”
Drinking water only during Iftar is not enough
Hatunoğlu also emphasized the importance of fluid intake, stating, “Drinking water only during Iftar is often not enough to compensate for the fluid the body loses throughout the day. Consuming water during suhoor helps prevent issues like dehydration-related headaches and fatigue during the day.”
A properly planned suhoor protects the stomach
Clarifying the belief that suhoor tires the stomach, Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics said, “A properly planned suhoor does not tire the stomach; on the contrary, it protects it. When fatty, spicy, and excessively salty foods are avoided, Suhoor helps balance stomach acid. A light but nutritious Suhoor makes the stomach more resilient against prolonged fasting.”
What should those who cannot have suhoor do?
Hatunoğlu concluded by emphasizing that individuals who cannot have suhoor should implement a more conscious nutrition plan during Iftar, stating, “Those who cannot have suhoor need to be more careful during Iftar. Iftar should not be done too quickly; one should start with water and/or a small amount of soup. The main meal should include protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. A small snack can be planned a few hours after Iftar. If this snack is sufficient and balanced, it can help compensate for the absence of suhoor.”