Dear PRAMITA friends, Ramadan is not just a spiritual journey; it’s also an opportunity to improve health. One popular claim is that fasting during Ramadan can lower blood pressure. Is it true? Let’s uncover the facts! What Does Research Say? Studies indicate that Ramadan fasting benefits heart health and blood pressure. Kusmiati et al. (2021) found that fasting regulates eating patterns, reduces salt intake, and balances stress hormones, positively affecting blood pressure. How Does It W...

Dear PRAMITA friends, anemia might seem like a common topic when it comes to health, especially among young people. But have you ever thought that anemia could be more than just low blood? One essential yet often overlooked test is checking ferritin levels. Why is this important? Let’s find out! What is Ferritin? Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. Think of it as an "iron bank" that holds reserves for when your body needs it. Low ferritin levels mean your body is running out...

Ramadan in Indonesia is not just about prayers and breaking the fast; it's also filled with unique traditions that make the holy month even more memorable. These customs reflect community bonds and cultural richness. Let’s explore some exciting ones! 1. Dandangan - Kudus, Central Java Dandangan marks the start of Ramadan in Kudus, with bustling streets, lanterns, and market stalls selling Ramadan essentials. The event features drum performances and announcements of the fasting month by local...

Waking up kids for suhoor can be quite a challenge, right? Sometimes they’re still sleepy, lazy, or even grumpy. But don’t worry! There are some foolproof tricks to make them excited for suhoor without the drama. Let’s check out these tips!     1. Make Suhoor a Fun Moment   Don’t make suhoor feel like an obligation. Create a lively atmosphere with small surprises, like their favorite meal or an engaging bedtime story. Research by   Yuliani (2023)   found that  Prophetic Parenting , which emp...

Ramadan is a great time to break free from bad habits, including smoking. Fasting offers a unique challenge and opportunity to escape nicotine addiction. But how does fasting actually help smokers? 1. Reducing Nicotine Dependence   During fasting, the body goes without nicotine for more than 12 hours, lowering nicotine levels in the blood and forcing the body to adapt without cigarettes. 2. Promoting Discipline and Commitment   Fasting teaches self-discipline, which can be applied to con...

Fasting often causes dry mouth and bad breath, but don’t worry—we’ve got the solution! Brush your teeth twice a day after suhoor and iftar with fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. Floss between your teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes to remove trapped food particles. Use a tongue scraper regularly to clean your tongue and eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and melon to keep your mouth hydrated. And don’t forget to...