Religion

Question 1

☪️ Islam

Answer 1

• Halal food only (permitted).
• Haram foods are forbidden (e.g. pork, alcohol, non-halal meat).
• Fasting during Ramadan: No food or drink from sunrise (suhoor) to sunset (iftar).
Impact:
• Risk of dehydration – especially if fasting during long summer days.
• Low energy levels, headaches, or poor concentration during the day.
• Potential for overeating or consuming high-fat/sugar foods in the evening
• Nutrient-dense meals with protein, fibre, complex carbs to provide sustained energy.

Question 2

✡️ Judaism

Answer 2

• Must follow kosher rules:
• No pork, shellfish, or certain types of fish.
• Only meat from animals that chew the cud and have split hooves (e.g. beef, lamb) is allowed.
• Dairy and meat cannot be eaten together – separate preparation areas, utensils, and meals.

🍽️ Nutritional Impact:
• Separating dairy and meat can make meal planning complex:
• May result in lower calcium intake if dairy is skipped.
• Can limit meal variety and access to convenient foods, especially in public places.
• Kosher food is often more expensive and harder to find.

Question 3

🕉️ Hinduism

Answer 3

Food Practices:
• Many Hindus are vegetarian (especially devout or practicing Hindus).
• If meat is eaten, beef is strictly forbidden – the cow is considered sacred.
• Fasting may occur on holy days or as a spiritual discipline, but varies by region and tradition.

Nutritional Impact:
• Vegetarianism can be very healthy if balanced, but may lead to:
• Low iron intake (especially if red meat is avoided).
• Low vitamin B12 – mainly found in animal products.
• Risk of low protein intake if diet lacks variety (e.g. lentils, legumes, tofu, nuts).
• Needs careful planning to ensure plant-based protein and iron absorption (e.g. pairing with vitamin C).

Question 4

☸️ Buddhism

Answer 4

Food Practices:
• Many Buddhists follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, based on the principle of ahimsa (non-violence).
• Some avoid strong-smelling vegetables like garlic, onions, and leeks – believed to stimulate desire or anger.
• Monks/nuns may only eat at specific times (e.g. before noon).

Nutritional Impact:
• Vegetarian or vegan diets may lack:
• Vitamin B12 (only found in animal products) – essential for nerve health and red blood cells.
• Iron – especially haem iron from meat, which is better absorbed.
• Protein, calcium, and omega-3 if not well-planned.