Eating slowly helps avoid overeating, as it gives the body time to send satiety signals (ghrelin, the hormone responsible for feeling full) to the brain. During Ramadan, eating slowly gives the fasting person a greater opportunity to taste and enjoy the meal.
Parents are advised to encourage children to chat during meals to take the focus away from the food. Clinical nutritionist Hanin Al-Salem advises serving foods slowly and dividing the prepared dishes into stages. Psychologist Dr. Salam Ashour says Ramadan is an opportunity to educate children.