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Food that are Toyyib

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Written by Nursyafilah

 

Allah has commanded in Surah Al- Baqarah verse 172-173:

 

“ O you who have faith! Eat of the good things We have provided you, and thank Allah, if it is Him that you worship.

He has forbidden you only carrion, blood, the flesh of the swine, and that which has been offered to other than Allah. But should someone be compelled, without being rebellious or aggressive , there shall be no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is all-forgiving all-merciful”.

 

Many tend to associate sunnah food to mainly dates and honey, these are foods mentioned in the Quran as well. However, do note that the Quran extend many references in relation to the Arabs, and basically people in middle east. But there are many more foods that are toyyib (good) to eat yet brings great health benefits and this does not only relate to those mentioned here.

 

  1. Dates

Dates are commonly consumed during Ramadhan for both pre-dawn meals and break fast. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fibre, and more which are good for the body. It helps prevent constipation, ensures blood sugar control, and even impedes the growth of some chronic illnesses including cancer or diabetes. Moreover, it stimulates brain function by reducing any inflammations and plaques in the brain which could potentially hinder Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Each type of date definitely has its own unique benefit. For instance, eating 7 Ajwa dates every morning prevents one from poison or magic.

قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَنْ تَصَبَّحَ كُلَّ يَوْمٍ سَبْعَ تَمَرَاتٍ عَجْوَةً لَمْ يَضُرُّهُ فِي ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ سُمٌّ وَلاَ سِحْرٌ ‏"‏‏.

“Allah's Messenger () said, "He who eats seven 'Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them."” [Sahih Bukhari 5445]

 

Dates can be eaten as it is, used in recipes and even substitutes for white sugar. If you are looking for a healthier substitute for white sugar and still possess natural sweetness, simply add the dates into water and blend it till smooth. Best to keep it refrigerated up to 6 months.

 

  1. Honey

Honey is known for many things including its sweet taste and healing properties. Similar to dates, it can be used as a substitute for sugar. It is a natural sweetener with nutritional benefits. Yes, you can enjoy your favourite honey cornflakes during festive seasons with lesser guilt now but make sure you are still mindful with how much honey is consumed because it is, after all, still a sweetener and overconsumption may lead to negative health impact.

Honey is also commonly used to treat both internal illnesses and external wounds. It is said to have wound-healing properties and antibacterial action.

Treatment of internal sickness/illness

  • Diarrhoea: reduces severity and duration by stimulating potassium and water intake
  • Acid reflux: prevents stomach acid or undigested food from flowing upwards
  • Cold and cough symptoms: soothes throat and heals from cough

 

Treatment of external wounds

  • Wounds and burns: apply honey to the skin to treat it

 

To top of it all, our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. likes to eat honey too.

قَالَتْ كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم يُحِبُّ الْحَلْوَاءَ وَالْعَسَلَ‏.‏

“The Prophet () used to like sweet edible things and honey.” [Sahih Bukhari 5599]

 

  1. Olive/Olive Oil

"‏ اِئْتَدِمُوا بِالزَّيْتِ وَادَّهِنُوا بِهِ فَإِنَّهُ مِنْ شَجَرَةٍ مُبَارَكَةٍ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

“Season (your food) with olive oil and anoint yourselves with it, for it comes from a blessed tree.” [Sunan Ibn Majah 3319]

 

Blessed indeed as olives bring about numerous health benefits. Olives are often extracted into olive oil but can sometimes be consumed as it is in meals. It is a source of healthy fats due to low cholesterol level and rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, iron, copper, and calcium which are essential to our body.

 

These properties result in long-term benefits. For instance, low cholesterol level would mean improved health, especially for the heart, and in turn, this reduces the risk of heart diseases. Furthermore, the antioxidants are proven to reduce chronic inflammation which relieves any related symptoms.

 

The best part is, this could be used as an ingredient in our favourite food. Olive or olive oils are commonly paired in salads, pasta recipes like aglio olio, and even pizzas! With its unique and salty flavour, you can enjoy the best taste with great health benefits.

 

 

References

Elliott, B. (2018, March 21). 8 Proven Health Benefits of Dates. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-dates

Nordqvist, J. (2018, February 14). Honey: Benefits, uses, and properties. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264667#history

Pathak, N. (2020, September 17). Green Olives: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving, Preparation Information, and More. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-green-olives#1