Doum juice is a beneficial and distinctive beverage during Ramadan, as it contains many essential vitamins and minerals. It is rich in antioxidants that protect against diseases, helps lower blood pressure, and improves heart health. Additionally, doum contains calcium, which is beneficial for bones, and vitamin B, which boosts body energy. However, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid side effects such as excessively lowering blood pressure. Including doum juice in your Iftar meal is a healthy and refreshing choice during Ramadan.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup crushed doum
• 2 liters of water
• 1 cup sugar

Preparation Method:

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. First, measure ¼ cup of crushed doum and set it aside.
2. Then, prepare 2 liters of water and keep it in a container.

Caramelizing the Sugar:

1. In a deep pot over medium heat, add 1 cup of sugar and wait for it to start melting.
2. Let it turn into a light golden color, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Adding Doum and Water:

1. Once the sugar turns golden, add the crushed doum to the pot.
2. Stir well to mix the sugar and doum, then gradually add 2 liters of water while continuously stirring.
3. Keep stirring to prevent the sugar from clumping at the bottom.

Boiling the Ingredients:

1. Let the mixture boil for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all ingredients blend well.

Cooling the Juice:

1. After boiling, turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
2. It is best to let it sit at room temperature or refrigerate it until fully chilled.

Straining:

1. Once the mixture has cooled, use a fine strainer to filter the juice and remove any doum residue.

Serving:

1. Serve the juice in glasses with ice cubes for extra refreshment.
2. You can also sweeten it or add fruit cubes as desired.

Tips:

• Adjust the amount of sugar to taste, or replace it with honey or other healthy alternatives to reduce sugar intake.
• If you prefer a more concentrated juice, reduce the amount of water or let the mixture boil longer.

Variation in Preparation Method:

You can diversify the taste of doum juice by adding some distinctive flavors. For example, adding lemon juice can give the juice a refreshing and tangy flavor. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a lively and refreshing taste. To enhance the benefits of the juice, you can use honey instead of regular sugar for sweetening, which adds extra benefits to the immune system.

If you want to improve the taste or increase the juice's concentration, you can reduce the amount of water or let the mixture boil for a longer time until it becomes more concentrated. You can also add fruit cubes like berries or mango to create a richer flavor.

How to Store Doum Juice:

To keep doum juice fresh and healthy for as long as possible, it is recommended to store it properly. Doum juice can be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its taste and nutritional value. It is best to store the juice in tightly sealed glass bottles or clean plastic containers to prevent contamination or exposure to bacteria.

The storage period should not exceed 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator to preserve its flavor and benefits. After this period, the juice may lose some of its nutritional value and its taste may change. To avoid spoilage, it is best to consume the juice as soon as possible after preparation.

The Importance of Doum in General Nutrition:

Doum is a plant with numerous health benefits and is used in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for various health issues. It contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Doum is also a good source of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to strengthening bones and teeth. Thanks to its fiber content, doum helps improve digestive health and prevent constipation.

Potential Side Effects of Doum Juice:

Doum juice is a healthy and nutritious drink, but consuming it in excessive amounts may cause some side effects. People with low blood pressure may experience a further drop in their blood pressure when consuming doum juice, as it is known to help lower blood pressure. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness or fainting. Therefore, it is advised that these individuals consult a doctor before consuming doum juice regularly.

People taking medications to lower blood pressure may experience an excessive drop in blood pressure when consuming doum juice, which could lead to serious health issues. It is best for these individuals to consult a doctor to determine the appropriate dosage or consider alternative drinks.

Comparison with Other Drinks:

When comparing doum juice with date juice or Qamar Al-Din juice, doum juice contains fewer calories than date juice, making it a better option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake. Additionally, doum juice has a higher antioxidant content compared to Qamar Al-Din juice, enhancing its health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is doum juice safe for people with low blood pressure?
Yes, doum juice may contribute to lowering blood pressure, so individuals with low blood pressure or those taking medications to lower it should consult a doctor before drinking it.

Can doum juice be consumed daily?
Doum juice can be consumed in moderation daily, but it should be part of a balanced diet. Avoid excessive consumption to prevent any negative effects on heart health.

Can crushed doum be added to other beverages?
Yes, crushed doum can be added to other drinks like natural juices or even tea for additional benefits.

What benefits does doum juice provide for children?
Doum juice contains vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitamin B, which are essential for children's health, especially during growth stages. However, it should be consumed cautiously and in appropriate amounts.

How does doum juice affect energy levels during Ramadan?
Doum juice helps reduce fatigue during fasting hours, thanks to its fiber and vitamin content that boost energy and improve overall body health.

Does doum juice contain added sugars?
Yes, doum juice typically includes added sugar during preparation. The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to preference or replaced with natural sweeteners like honey.

Nutritional Values, Calories, and Benefits

¼ Cup of Crushed Doum

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 5mg

Vitamins:

• Vitamin B6: 0.1mg (8% of the daily requirement)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (3% of the daily requirement)

Nutritional Benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Helps lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Rich in fiber, supporting digestive health and preventing constipation.
• Contributes to stronger bones due to its calcium and magnesium content.
• Boosts energy and reduces fatigue during fasting hours.