Food is a essential part of a human life
Food provides the energy and nutrients our bodies need to function. Macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the building blocks of energy and bodily repair, while micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals support immune function, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet, incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and healthy fats, is key to maintaining optimal health.
That nowadays where so many nutrition experts says about good and bad meals for our diet. Islam aswell provides guidance on every aspect of human existence, including matters related to food and drink.
In the Quran and Hadith, there are detailed instructions regarding eating etiquette, permissible (halal) and impermissible (haram) food, and principles for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Islam not only explains what we should eat, but also how we should eat, from what source we should eat, whether halal or haram. Today, we will discuss the Sunnah foods, which our beloved Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم used to eat. In every Sunnah, there are countless benefits for us. First, we will understand the concept of halal and haram, so that we can avoid the haram and consume foods in accordance with halal and Sunnah. Then, we will discuss the benefits of these Sunnah foods.
The Concept of Halal and Haram
Islamic teachings emphasize the distinction between halal (permissible) and haram (forbidden) food. Allah says in the Quran:
“O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.” (Surah Al-Baqarah)
This verse encourages not only the consumption of halal but also “tayyib” (pure and wholesome) food, meaning food that is both physically and spiritually beneficial.
Prohibited items include carrion, blood, pork, and animals slaughtered in the name of anyone other than Allah. Similarly, intoxicants are forbidden as they harm the body and mind.
Prohibited (Haram) Foods
Surah Al-Baqarah
“He has only forbidden to you dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah. But whoever is forced [by necessity], neither desiring [it] nor transgressing [its limit], there is no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
This verse highlights the four main categories of haram food while allowing exceptions in cases of necessity.
In this verse dead animals means Every animal that dies on its own, without being hunted or killed by anyone but dies a natural death, is considered impermissible (haram) to consume.
And In today’s era, alcohol has become very common. People bring it to their parties, serve it at home gatherings, and in foreign countries, it has become difficult for Muslims to avoid it. Let us hear what the Quran says about it.
“They ask you about wine and gambling. Say, ‘In th them is great sin and [yet, some] benefit for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit..
.'”This verse highlights the prohibition of alcohol and other intoxicants. Any food or drink contain them is also considered haram (forbidden).
foods or drinks with haram ingredients, even in small amounts, must be avoided.
In the hadith there is also Demand for Halal:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Indeed, Allah is pure and only accepts what is pure.” (Muslim)
This proves that consuming only halal and pure items is a means of earning Allah’s pleasure.
Pratical tips
So Whenever you’re buying food or drinks, it is essential to check the ingredients to ensure they do not contain any haram or questionable substances, such as:
Gelatin (if derived from pork)
Alcohol (even in small amounts)
Enzymes or other doubtful components
So where forbidden food will spoil your health also impact on your spiritual health
Food and drink that contain haram substances not only harm the body but also have negative spiritual consequences. Consuming haram can harden the heart, reduce focus in worship, and result in prayers being unanswered.
Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to be mindful of what they consume and strive to ensure their food and drink are entirely halal and pure.
So when we read which food we have to avoid Acting upon the commands of Islam
Now according to the Hadith, we will learn about the foods that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned as beneficial for our health. Indeed, every word of his is the truth.
Firstly we discuss about fruits
1 The olive
the olive is mentioned multiple times in the Quran, emphasizing its significance. One prominent verse is: in surah teen
“By the fig and the olive.”
Here, Allah swears by the olive, indicating its importance and sacred nature in Islam.
olives are referred to as a blessed tree, and their benefits are particularly emphasized. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged the use of olive oil for consumption and treatment.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Consume olive oil and apply it (to your bodies), for it is from a blessed tree.”
(Tirmidhi: 1851)
Nutritional Values of olives
Rich in Healthy Fats: Olives are a great source of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which supports heart health.
Antioxidants: They contain powerful antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Olives are a source of essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and copper.
So we should add olives and olive oil in our daily diet
2 fig
The verse mentioned above swears by both the olive and the fig.
Figs are highly regarded in Islamic tradition and are mentioned in both the Quran and Hadith. Below is a notable Hadith about figs:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“If I had to mention a fruit that descended from Paradise, I would say it is the fig because it is without seeds. Eat it, for it cures various diseases.”
(Ibn al-Qayyim in “Tibb an-Nabawi”)
This Hadith highlights the fig’s special status as a blessed fruit and its numerous health benefits, making it a Sunnah food in Islamic tradition.
3 Date (Tamar)
Dates are highly regarded in Islam and are considered a blessed fruit. They are mentioned numerous times in the Quran.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended eating dates for their health benefits, especially during fasting.Hadith:
“A house without dates is like a house without food.” (Sahih Muslim)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There is no morning in which the servant of Allah does not eat seven dates of Ajwa, and they will not harm him in that day, neither poison nor magic.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This Hadith highlights the protective and healing properties of dates, especially Ajwa dates, which are considered particularly blessed.
So, we can use dates because if there is any illness in our body, it will be eliminated due to them, and we will gain strength.
Nutritionists recognize dates as a highly nutritious fruit, rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of dates:
Dates are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes regular bowel movements. Fiber also helps in controlling blood sugar levels and managing weight by promoting feelings of fullness.
Because of their high fiber content, dates promote gut health by improving digestion and preventing constipation
.there are some antioxidants and vitamins in dates, such as vitamin C and D, which helps to maintain healthy skin and prevent signs of aging.
In summary, dates are highly nutritious and offer a wide range of health benefits, including boosting energy, aiding digestion, supporting heart and bone health, and providing essential vitamins and minerals.
4 Pomegranate (Rumman)
Pomegranates are mentioned in the Quran and are considered a fruit of Paradise.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be uponHoney is a source of healing for mankind.
Our Holy prophet {pbuh) has taught us the great benefits of honey. Scientists have also confirmed the beneficial effects of honey regarding medical and health issues. Honey is considered the ultimate food for internal and external benefits. him) spoke highly of pomegranates and their health benefits.Hadith: “Eat pomegranate, for it removes bad feelings from the heart.” (Ibn Majah)
5 honey
Honey is a source of healing for mankind.
Our Holy prophet {pbuh) has taught us the great benefits of honey.
Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA): The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“There is healing in three things: a drink of honey, a branding with fire (cauterization), and a cut of the cupper (bloodletting). But I forbid my followers from cauterization.”(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This hadith indicates that honey is considered a source of healing. It emphasizes its medicinal value, highlighting that it can be used as a remedy for various ailments. However, it also advises moderation, particularly in the context of cauterization, which the Prophet (PBUH) discouraged.
Scientists have also confirmed the beneficial effects of honey regarding medical and health issues. Honey is considered the ultimate food for internal and external benefits.
Narrated in hadth book: “The Prophet (PBUH) used to take honey, and it was the best of food for him.”
(Sahih Muslim)
6 Barley
It is narated that:“The Prophet (PBUH) consumed barley bread, which was one of his preferred food choices”. (Sahih Muslim)
Benefits of Barley is a good source of fiber, helping in digestion and providing sustained energy.
7:Milk
Milk is a highly nutritious beverage with many health benefits. And frequently mentioned in the hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), highlighting its benefits, importance, and use in daily life..
Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA): The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“There is no drink that is better than milk, as it is from the sustenance of Allah.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah,
This hadith highlights that prophet peace be upom him used to like milk and the blessings and nourishment that milk provides, considering it one of the best natural drinks.
Prophet (Peace be upom him ) said:
“Feed your children with milk, for it is the best nourishment and a source of healing.”
In the research of nutritions
Milk is one of the best sources of calcium, which is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake helps prevent bone-related issues such as osteoporosis, especially as people age.
Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that regulate sleep. Drinking milk before bed is thought to help relaxation and good sleep.
8 meat
There are several hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) related to meat consumption.
Abu Huraira narated: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Eat meat, for it is the best of food.”
In the light of hadith it is shown that prophet peace be upom him used to like eat
In hadith reported:
The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, “would eat meat with his companions and enjoy it, but he also advised against eating to excess.”
These hadiths further highlight the importance of meat in Islamic culture,
And the act of sharing meals, and the significance of the meat from sacrificial animals. They also promote moderation, gratitude, and hospitality in food consumption.
May Allah guide us the right way to eating food about sunnah and guide us to keep learning the comandations of islam