Garangao, that falls on the 14th day of Ramadan, is a night of celebration for children. It is a tradition that revives ancestors’ heritage and delights both children and adults. The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) offers some advice and healthy tips to celebrate Garangao’s night safely.
Dr. Aba Sellimi, General Practitioner, PHCC’s Al Sheehaniya Health Center, advised the public to choose healthy food, purchase food from well-known stores, and pay attention to food expiration dates.
She recommended eating a moderate amount of fresh and unsalted nuts and avoiding foods with flavors, additives, or coloring that could be harmful to the body. The healthiest nuts are pistachios, cashews, almonds, and walnuts as they are high in protein, vitamins, and good fats, she added. In addition to avoiding processed juices with added sugar and preservatives and replacing them with water and fresh fruits or fresh juices with no added sugar.
Dr. Sellimi cautioned against giving nuts to children who have a nut allergy, such as peanut allergy, and to avoid offering Garangao basket or bag to young children who cannot chew and swallow well, as this may lead to suffocation.
She also recommended to reduce intake of sugars and carbohydrates, as they are harmful to the body, cause cavities, lead to high blood sugar and fat levels, and lead to weight gain. She, instead, recommended fried fruits, such as raisins and dried plums.
Dr. Sellimi advised parents to brush their child’s teeth after eating nuts and to wash hands regularly before and after eating to help prevent infections.
