King Abdullah II and Queen Rania are marking Ramadan by visiting orphans and refugees, and reminding Jordanians to be mindful of their health during the Islamic holy month.
The King has begun a campaign to make Jordanians eat healthier at a time when health problems skyrocket.
During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to fast from sunrise till sunset. Once it is sunset, Muslims traditionally break their fast by eating first dates, then move to richer meals of lamb or other meat, rice, potatoes – and super-sugary Ramadan sweets.
But some Muslims break their fast by binge eating, causing health problems. In Jordan, health officials say heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and simple indigestion cases seen at hospitals and clinics had skyrocketed during the holy month’s first week
Health problems in the Middle East are increasing, leading to some countries, like Jordan, to add health care to their budgets.
To combat the health issues, King Abdullah started a campaign, which includes 15 animated commercials aimed at promoting healthier food habits.
Jordan’s government is thought the first, however, to sponsor Ramadan-specific public service health spots. The campaign is headed by King Abdullah II and Queen Rania – who often speak publicly about their own exercise-filled lifestyles and healthy diets.
In addition to getting their people healthy for Ramadan, the King and Queen have been doing some charity visits. Both have visited an orphanage, and the King spent time with Palestinian refugees at the al-Talibya refugee camp.
On September 6th, King Abdullah performed the Umrah in Mecca to mark the start of Ramadam.
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