From Tradition to Nourishment

At Oakville Hospital Foundation, we believe health, well-being, and community are deeply connected. For Mahreen, a member of our team who observes Ramadan, this connection becomes even more meaningful during this sacred month—shaping not just how she nourishes her body, but also how she gives back.

In this piece, Mahreen shares her personal journey with Ramadan, how her approach to nourishment has evolved over the years, and why giving is at the heart of this month.

Growing Up with Ramadan Traditions

Growing up, Ramadan was a time of deep connection—family gatherings, spiritual reflection, and, of course, the meals that bookended our fasts. Suhoor, the early morning meal, and iftar, the meal that broke our fast at sunset, were filled with tradition. I remember the comforting aromas of fried samosas, flaky parathas, and rich, carb-heavy dishes that filled our table. After a long day of fasting, these foods felt like a well-earned reward—something to look forward to after hours of patience and discipline.

But as I grew older, I started to see Ramadan through a different lens. Over time, I realized fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food—it’s also about mindful nourishment.

A New Approach to Nourishment During Ramadan

Now, as a mother, my relationship with food has evolved. I want to fuel my body in a way that honours my health and strengthens me throughout the day, rather than leaving me feeling sluggish or depleted. I also want to instill these values in my family, showing them that eating well is not just about what’s on the plate, but about how it makes us feel.

That’s why I’ve made a conscious shift in how I prepare for Ramadan. Instead of relying on deep-fried or heavy foods, I focus on balanced, nourishing meals that sustain my energy and keep my family feeling good throughout the month. Meal prepping has become an essential part of this—ensuring that both suhoor and iftar are filled with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and slow-releasing carbohydrates that keep us fuller for longer. Simple changes, like swapping fried samosas for baked versions or incorporating more fibre-rich foods, have made a world of difference in how we feel while fasting.

That said, one tradition I will always carry with me is the use of dates to break my fast. It’s something I grew up with—my family always had dates on the table at iftar—and now I appreciate them not just for their significance, but for their incredible nutrition. Dates hold deep significance in the Muslim community, and they’re also packed with essential nutrients—rich in natural sugars and fibre, providing a quick source of energy after a long fast. I’ve also started incorporating them beyond iftar—adding an extra date or two as a form of dessert. It’s a small way to satisfy my post-fast sweet cravings while also giving my body something nourishing.

But while I focus on feeding my own family, Ramadan also reminds me of those who don’t have enough to eat. Fasting teaches us empathy for those facing food insecurity and calls on us to take action.

The Deeper Meaning of Ramadan: Giving, Gratitude & Community

Ramadan isn’t just about personal discipline—it’s a time of giving, gratitude, and community. It reminds us to be thankful for what we have and to share our blessings with those in need.

That’s why I’m proud that Oakville Hospital Foundation is supporting the Ramadan Food Drive, an initiative that helps families in our community have access to nourishing foods. Just as fasting brings us together in reflection, giving allows us to uplift one another in times of need. Whether it’s a donation of pantry staples or a meal shared with a neighbour, every act of generosity strengthens our community.

At its heart, Ramadan is about compassion, care, and looking out for one another—values that also align with the work we do at Oakville Hospital Foundation. Just as our generous donors help to ensure that patients receive the care they need, supporting initiatives like the Ramadan Food Drive is one more way we can help our community thrive.

For me, health is a form of gratitude, a way to honour my body and the life I’m blessed to live. This Ramadan, I carry that lesson forward by nourishing my family and giving back to my community.