(IslamWeb)


As far as the diet is concerned, Islam has laid down the foundations in the Qur'an and the Sunnah for the best approach in keeping good health. This approach is mainly through selection of the best, preventive methods, and avoiding any harmful drugs. The following is a summary of the principal ideas relating to diet and health in Islam:

1) Allah commanded everyone to eat what is lawful (Halal). The Qur'an states in Surah (chapter) Al-Baqarah (the cow): "Ye people: eat of what is on earth, lawful and wholesome." (Qur'an 2: 168)

2) People are to ENJOY their food as it effects their personality and character. Enjoying the eating of food is a matter of worship as any other aspect of life in Islam.

3) Muslims are to SELECT the best quality food. In this regard Allah says in the Qur'an in Surah Al-Kahf (the Cave):
"Now send ye then one of you with this money of yours to the town: let him find out which is the best food (to be had)…." (Qur'an 18: 19)

4) Muslims are to EAT the best food after selecting the best. Allah says in the Qur'an in Surah Al-A'raf (the heights):
"Eat of the good foods we have provided for you" (Qur'an 7: 160)

5) The best approach in the process of prevention is the concept of MODERATION in eating habits. The Qur'an emphatically states this idea in Surah Al-A'raf (the heights): "Eat and drink, but waste not by excess, for Allah loves not the prodigals." (Qur'an 7: 31)

6) Regarding the idea of moderation through diet, it is mentioned in Surah Taha whereby Allah says: "Eat of the good things we have provided for your sustenance, but commit no excess therein." (Qur'an 20: 81)
g) Another approach that Islam demands from its followers is the idea of TOTAL ABSTINENCE of food and drinks, from dawn to sunset, for one whole month (i.e. the month of Ramadan). The benefits of fasting have been tested and documented especially in biochemistry, physiology, clinical therapeutics, clinical nutrition, etc.

Benefits of Fasting

1. It gives the digestive system the golden chance of rest

2. Treats obesity which predisposes to so many illnesses

3. Reduces Hypertension

4. Improves Diabetes

5. Improves arthritis

6. Kidney diseases (Improvement)

7. Heart diseases (Improvement)

The Prophet [peace be upon him {PBUH}] pointed out many kinds of foods and drinks which contain high nutritious and healing properties e.g., milk, honey, meat etc. Some foods were assigned particularly to certain diseases. He advised that suitable food should be the first line of treatment.

Manners of Eating

Narrated Anas bin Malik: "Milk mixed with water was brought to Allah's Apostle while a Beduin (countryman) was on his right and Abu Bakr was on his left. He drank (of it) and then gave (it) to the Beduin and said, "The right" (The right first)." (Bukhari)

The Prophet {PBUH} said: "O young man! Mention the Name of Allah, and eat with your right hand and eat of the dish what is nearer to you." (Bukhari)

The Prophet's Medicine and Exercise

Exercise in Islam has a comprehensive meaning. It includes the exercise (or training) of the body, spirit and desires.

As for body exercise, the Prophet {pbuh} exhorted men for walking long distances, running, riding horses, wrestling, racing and swimming. Exercise of the spirit is by contracting good manners and virtues. Exercises of the desires are prayers, fasting, patience and giving charity.

The Prophet's Manners of Sleeping

1. He {PBUH} used to go to sleep early and get up very early

2. He slept on his right side

3. He never slept immediately after meals

4. He slept on a hard bed

5. Prohibited sleeping on the stomach
.
6. He Prohibited sleeping with half of the body exposed to sun and the other half in the shade

7. He said special prayers before bed


SUNDAY :25/04/2004