Your eating and

spiritual guide
to Ramadan 2011

The rst publication by behalal.org. We hope it helps you.

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Contents
Wa alaiykum us salaam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh Ramadan Kareem.
Welcome to our rst Ramadan publication, we hope you will enjoy reading it and forgive any mistakes we may have made. The information in this publication has been put together by a team of individuals who want to help others in their service to God, which forms the basis for behalal.org. Behalal is an online Halal focused consumer and industry site to provide information, advice and up to date news on all things eaten, used and the impact i.e. diet and health. Behalal has been set up as a platform to allow all to come together to benet those wishing to use and eat Halal products, which are good for all and not just for Muslims. We are passionate about Halal products and we believe that Islam is the basis for sound advice to help all mankind. Today we have proof from scientists who are still discovering advice delivered over 1,400 years ago as revealed in the noble Quran and cited in the Hadith. The humble date, sunnah of the Prophet (S) to eat at the time of breaking fast. Clinical research published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition entitled The fruit of the date palm: its possible use as the best food for the future? concluded that dates may be considered as an almost ideal food, providing a wide range of essential nutrients and potential health benets. The term healthy eating forms the foundation of the message given to followers in Islam. To eat for health (good and sound food) and not for the sake of eating (over eating). We have a global diabetes epidemic that scientists say is created by western foods that has led to an increase in obesity and diabetes. A new study funded by Diabetes UK conrmed that diabetes type 2 can be reversed by reducing calories. Islam laid the intellectual foundations for large portions of Western civilization. Muslims should be the beacons for these teaching however; some of us could be in better spiritual, mental and physical shape. And Alhamdulillah Ramadan is the perfect time for this reection and change to get us all back on track. By no means last we would like to thank all the contributors by Helping us, joining us to support behalal.orgs work, by the grace of Allah. We look forward to hearing from you.

Ramadan. The journey is the destination Charity in Ramadan Food for thought Behalal health focus diabetes Behalal & the UK Halal market Behalal putting your food where our mouth is Help us

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Ruksana Shain Founder behalal.org

And many thanks to Georgia Kershaw of GK designs who put this whole guide together in between looking after two children.

georgiakershaw@hotmail.co.uk

Plus, thanks to Wasi for a bit of guidance. (My husband)

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Ramadan. The journey is the destination.

So whoever is present for the month let him fast through it. Anyone ill or on a journey (who does not fast) should make up an equal number days (outside Ramadan). Allah wants ease for you and does not want hardship for you so that you complete the period and glorify Allah for what he guided you and perhaps you will be grateful.
[Surah al-Baqarah, Ayah 185]

YOUR VISION: WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE IN THIS MONTH??

Now list at least 3 things which you would like to achieve during this month. Remember to be realistic with what you would like to achieve and not IDEALISTIC!

*BRAINSTORM*
For Example, I would like to achieve:

A relationship with my lord a better relationship with my parents To ensure I adhere to my daily prayers
.. Now, its YOUR turn

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Ramadan workout heart.

Before you start lets take a shot
SALAH
With Kushoo

The clock is ticking

Like the beating of the heart . . .
Lest a person should say: Alas, my grief that I was undutiful to Allah (i.e I have not done what Allah has ordered me to do), and I was indeed among those who mocked at the truth [AzZumar:56]

...leads to Jannah

...With sincerity

FASTING

...the bonus prayer

...30 days 30 new dhikrs

EXERCISE
...for those extra pounds

GO AL S

PL

AN

INSTRUCTIONS:
The Quran guides us to the specic ingredients of a pure heart. The above eight pieces of the workout have been extrated from the Quraan and the Prophetic teachings. So do how use it? Simple. On a scale of 1-10 mark yourself where you would consider your at on either on a daily basis or before and after Ramadan. 1 being the need of lots of improvement and 10 being absolutely perfect! Then number yourself in the circle and if you complete it correctly youll see a representation of how good your workout is going. This measurement is a gift of self reection & consciousness. Youll get to see where your at now and how you need to grow yourself to the closer leves of righteousness to Allah. Dont worry if the numbers come out to low the main thing is for you to see what needs to be worked on and cultivated.

The main essentials of Time Management: Beating procrastination Activity log Action plan Priortized to do list Scheduling skills Personal goal eating

Ibn Abbas narrates that the Prophet (peace be upon him said):

There are two blessings which many people do not make the most of: Good health and free time {al- Bukahri}

EE KL Y

THE NIGHT PRAYER

DAILY DHIKRS

I DE

NT I FY

GOOD CHARACTER

SALAH

U YO

LS GOA R

AC T

ILY DA

SET
UR YO

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On reection.
A reminder nourishes the believers heart and soul
Allahs Apostle (saw) said, Whoever says, Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi, one hundred times a day, will be forgiven all his sins even if they were as much as the foam of the sea [Bukhari] Feeling Euphoric
Just mention the word Ramadan and Muslims around the world light up. Theres a feeling of excitement and anticipation. People just cant wait until it arrives. For some, theres actually a countdown to the rst day. Try explaining this eagerness to an average non-Muslim and they feel totally bewildered. They stare in disbelief when a Muslim describes the incredible peace and strength they derive from not eating or drinking for an entire day. They cringe at the thought of waking up before the crack of dawn to eat a meal and standing in prayer for an hour every night for a month. Its just beyond their comprehension. The euphoria of Ramadan can only be understood or appreciated by those who have lived and experienced it rsthand. Regardless of how eloquently the wonders and wisdom of Ramadan are explained, enough can never be said to truly capture the phenomenal experience. What exactly is it about this month of Ramadan that provokes such genuine enthusiasm and eagerness in Muslims around the world? Primarily, it is the obedience to Allahs commandment to fast. Adhering to Allahs commands gives an individual a strong sense of unity with the rest of the universe. Every creature, every living thing, every planet and galaxy is in complete submission to Allah except for human beings and jinn which have been given free will. The seven heavens and the earth, and all beings therein, declare His glory: there is not a thing but celebrates His praise; and yet you do not understand how they declare His glory! (17:44) Therefore, when we submit to the Will of Allah and are obedient, we become in sync with everything that exists. This synchronism is the peak of harmony and peace which envelops our hearts and creates a sublime tranquility that is unparalleled with anything else. In addition to the satisfaction we receive from obeying Allah, there is a real urge to redeem ourselves. To correct the past, to make amends and to purify ourselves from any sins we have committed either knowingly or unknowingly. The ardent devotedness to repent from all of our shortcomings and to embrace all the acts of worship which will cleanse our hearts is truly awe-inspiring.

When we critically reect on the past year without the usual justications and excuses about our laziness in worship, the injustices we have committed to our loved ones, the ungratefulness of all our extraordinary blessings and the careless ways we have spent our time, money and effort, then and only then can we wash away the sins with the tears of regret begging Allah for His Mercy and His Forgiveness with fervent supplication.

Say: O My slaves who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins), Despair not of the Mercy of Allah: verily, Allah forgives all sins. Truly He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (39:53)
As we attempt to mend the mistakes of the past, we gain new insight and motivation to improve ourselves and to strive to earn as many good deeds as possible with the remainder of our lives. We earnestly pray with more concentration, read pages and pages of the Quran effortlessly and we mindfully avoid even the smallest sins in fear of invalidating our fast. This revived zeal is fueled by the knowledge that Allah Most Merciful multiplies our good deeds exponentially during the blessed month of Ramadan. The night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months. (98:3) It is in similitude to having our wages increased signicantly for a period of time. With an increase in wages we would work long hours yearning to work overtime in order to reap the nancial rewards. The marathon of earning the most spiritual rewards becomes an unstoppable passion which begins to fortify our personal growth. Compete in good deeds (5:48) But as for him who feared standing before his Lord, and restrained himself from impure evil desires and lusts. Verily, Paradise will be his abode. (79:40,41) Respect is a result of congruency between our knowledge of the truth and our actions. When we act in accordance to our beliefs, we gain psychological, emotional and spiritual harmony. With an improved relationship with Allah through worship and a new awareness of our inner strength, we are naturally drawn to our family and friends to share the joy and enlightenment we have experienced. The frequent dinner invitations help nurture the love and benevolence amongst us. This pure, unadulterated love for the sake of Allah will help us attain a higher status on the Day of Judgment.

Allah the Exalted will declare on the Day of Resurrection: Where are those who loved each other for the sake of My Grace? This Day, I shall shade them under My Shade, when there is only My Shade. (Muslim)
Attending the congregational prayers at the mosque regularly increases the sense of unity and Muslim pride. As we see our friends and acquaintances ll every inch of the mosque, shedding tears of remorse and hope, our iman (faith) gets recharged and we view our life in a whole new paradigm. We celebrate this new perspective and our successful journey in self-purication and introspection by gathering for the Eid prayer, which is the culmination of the rituals of Ramadan. It is the synergy of worship, commitment, improvement and unity that leads to such a phenomenal experience during Ramadan. It is no wonder why so many Muslims around the world beam with excitement when approaching this blessed month. If up until now the only focus has been to refrain from eating and drinking, let us embrace it this year wholeheartedly to acquire its riches, for this may be our very last Ramadan. O Allah, on this day, let me have mercy on the orphans, and feed [the hungry], and spread peace, and keep company with the noble minded, O the shelter of the hopeful.

Detox:

Ramadan the greatest way to detox from so many toxins that we accumulate throughout the year. Toxins of the body (remedied with fasting). Toxins of the mind (remedied with Quran recitation). Toxins of the soul (remedied with Tawbah) Muhammed Al Shareef

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A prayer for the night.

Seven practical tips for praying Qiyaam.

1. Ikhlas (Sincerity)
Allahs Help is required not only for worldly affairs but also for our worship. And Allah helps those who are sincere in their hearts. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: If you are truthful with Allah, then Allah will deliver to you what you wish for. (An-Nasai, Al-Hakim and Sahih Al-Jami) Therefore, one should have a sincere intention to pray Qiyam Al-Layl. One should seek the pleasure of Allah alone and avoid any desire of praise or fame. Allah says: And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (Quran, 98:5) Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim said: The degree to which a person is helped and aided by Allah depends on the degree of his intention, drive, aim and hopes. Help from Allah comes to people in proportion to their drive, intention, hopes and fears. Failure comes to them in a similar manner.

4. Sleep as per the Sunnah

Sleep early! Its a healthy habit and it was the practice of Allahs Messenger (peace be upon him). He would sleep immediately after performing the Isha prayer. Abu Barzah Al-Aslami said the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to prefer to delay Isha, and he did not like to sleep before it or talk after it. (Al-Bukhari)

5. Dont eat too much

Eating and drinking too much are the main obstacles that make one lazy and negligent of Qiyam AlLayl. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said,Man lls no vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufcient for the son of Adam to have a few mouthfuls to give him the strength he needs. If he has to ll his stomach, then let him leave one-third for food, one-third for drink and one-third for air. (Al-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah, Sahih Al-Jami, no. 5674)

6. Exert yourself
And as for those who strive hard in Our Cause, We will surely guide them to Our Paths. And verily, Allah is with the Muhsinoon (good-doers). (Quran, 29:69) The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The Mujahid (one who strives in the Cuase of Allah) is the one who strives against his own self for the sake of Allah. (AlTirmidhi, Al-Sahihah, no. 549)

2. Know the virtue

Knowing the virtues and rewards of worship encourages us to perform them. The virtue of praying at night during Ramdan supersedes the virtue of praying any other night during the year. Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:Allahs Messenger (peace be upon him) encouraged the people, without making it an absolute command, to perform Qiyam during Ramadan. He (peace be upon him) used to say: Whoever stands (in Qiyam) in Ramadan out of faith and expectation (of Allahs reward), all his previous sins will be forgiven. (Sahih Muslim)

7. Regret if you missed it

Qiyam Al-Layl is a great blessing of Allah. He has kept numerous spiritual benets and rewards for the believer in this prayer. Therefore, one should regret if he misses this great opportunity of achieving rewards and the Pleasure of Allah.: O you who believe! Fear Allah and keep your duty to Him. And let every person look to what he has sent forth for the morrow, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Aware of what you do. (Quran, 59:18) Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim said,If the slave is responsible and accountable for everything, even his hearing, sight and innermost thoughts, as Allah says,Verily, hearing, sight, and the heart of each of you will be questioned by Allah. (Quran, 17:36), then he should check on himself before he is brought to account. As-Sunnah

3. Take a nap
Taking a nap before or after Zuhr Salah will reduce stress and give you sufcient energy to wake up late at night to stand in front of your Lord. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: Take a nap, for the Shayateen (pl. of Shaytan) do not take naps. (AtTabarani, Al-Sahihah, no. 2647)

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How to seek the night power.

Shaykh Muhammad Nasir-ud-Deen al-Albani
Laylat ul-Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If a believing person is zealous to obey his Lord and increase the good deeds in his record, he should strive to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.

Praying Qiyaam
It is recommended to make a long Qiyaam prayer during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many hadeeths, such as the following: Abu Tharr (radhiallahu `anhu) relates: We fasted with Allahs Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) in Ramadaan. He did not lead us (in qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadaan) left. Then he stood with us (that night in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, Allahs Messenger! Wouldnt you pray with us the whole night? He replied: Whoever stands in prayer with the imaam until he (the imaam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night. [Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmithi (who authenticated it), an-Nasai, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi. Their isnad is authentic.] [Point of benet: Abu Dawud mentioned: I heard Ahmad being asked, Do you like for a man to pray with the people or by himself during Ramadan?

He replied, Pray with the people I also heard him say, I would prefer for one to pray (qiyaam) with the imaam and to pray witr with him as well, for the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: When a man prays with the imaam until he concludes, it is recorded that he prayed the rest of that night. [Masaail]] Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr [and it is facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allahs reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim; the addition and it is facilitated for him is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]

Making Supplications
It is also recommended to make extensive supplication on this night. `Aishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported that she asked Allahs Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylat ul-Qadr, what should I say during it? And he instructed her to say: Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuh.ibbul `afwa fa `fu `annee - O Allah! You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness. So forgive me. [Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi. Veried to be authentic by Al-Albani]

Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship

It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr is likely to be. This calls for abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and thoughts solely for worshipping Allah. `Aishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported: When the (last) ten started, the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) would tighten his izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer), and wake up his family. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

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Charity in Ramadan.
Work out your Zakat:
www.letusbelieve.com/zakat-calculator/

A time to give and receive . . .

Imam Al-Bukhari and Muslim reported that Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, had said, The Prophet (saws) was the most generous of people. He used to be the most generous in Ramadhan when he would meet with angel Jibreal and study the Quran with him. Angel Jibreal would meet with the Prophet every night in Ramadhan to teach him the Quran. The Prophet was so generous when he met with Jibreal, more generous than the wind that brings rain. Imam Ahmad added to this narration, And nothing he was asked for but he would give it. Furthermore, Al-Bayhaqi reported that Aaishah, may Allah be pleased with her, had said, When Ramadhan would start, the Prophet would release all prisoners of war and fulll the need of every person who would ask him for something. Generosity and giving are attributes that Allah likes for Muslims to have. Also, Allah is the most Generous and Giving of all. Indeed, Allahs Generosity multiplies in Ramadhan. Similarly, the Prophets generosity increased in Ramadhan, and indeed he is the man whose personality entails all the attributes mankind seek and vie for.

2. This is a source of help and support, especially the ones fasting. To encourage this, the Prophet said, He who feeds a fasting person will gain the same reward as he will, without decreasing from the fasting persons rewards. [Ahmad]. The fasting person abandons food and drink in Ramadhan. Thus, when he gives others what he is craving for, this sacrice would generate greater rewards, Allah willing. 3. Ramadhan is the month of giving and mercy, and in it Allah blesses the believers with forgiveness and being saved from Hellre. Therefore, whoever is merciful and giving in Ramadhan, Allah will be even more Merciful and Giving, and will bestow upon him countless bounties and blessings. 4. Joining between fasting and giving charity leads to entering Paradise, by Allahs Leave and Blessings. The Prophet said, In Paradise there are rooms that their inside can be seen from outside and outside can be seen from inside. He was asked, For whom are these rooms, O Messenger of Allah? He said, They are for he who soften his speech, feeds the people, continues to fast, and prays at night while the people are asleep. [Ahmad]. All these acts take place in Ramadhan, for in it there are fasting, prayer at night, and charity. Also, the fasting person is sternly prohibited from evil and useless speech. Thus, performing all these deeds and attaining such unique bounties can be easily attained during Ramadhan by the fasting person. 5. Charity and fasting are a stronger and more effective barrier that will keep the person away from the Fire. As for fasting, the Prophet had said, Fasting is a shield and protection from Hellre [Ahmad]. He also said regarding charity, Charity extinguishes the sin just as water extinguishes the re. The mans prayer late at night has the same effect.

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This increased generosity of the Prophet in Ramadhan has several reasons and indications that we have to pay attention to, among them are: 1. Ramadhan is an honorable and blessed month, and the rewards for generosity are multiplied in it. The Prophet (saws) said, The best charity is that given in Ramadhan. [At-Tirmithi].

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Food for thought.

A healthy heart, body and soul !
A reminder nourishes the believers heart and soul
Before we do anything we should ask ourselves why are we doing this? Are we doing it to please Allah? If its not for Allah then it maybe a waste of time.

Living with Salt.

Everyone is eating too much salt and we all need to cut down on how much we eat. A high salt diet increases blood pressure which increases risk of strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease. Certain groups, including South Asian populations, are at higher risk of these conditions and therefore need to take even more care over how much salt they eat. Reducing salt doesnt have to be hard - in fact foods heavily seasoned with herbs and spices dont need a lot of salt as they have plenty of avour already.

Tips
Dont add salt at the table to any of your food Avoid using salt when cooking rice, potatoes or vegetables Use other avours such as herbs, spices, chilli, lemon instead of salt if you think your food tastes bland A lot of salt is hidden in processed foods such as bread, breakfast cereal and fast food so be careful when choosing these Pickles and other condiments can also be surprisingly salt so only use a small amount

SPIRITUALITY AND FOOD

The book of Allah Food has great signicance in Islam. It is associated with ones relationship with God. Chapter 20 verse 21 of the Quraan Eat of the good and wholesome things we have provided for your sustenance, but indulge in no excess therein Prophetic teachings The blesed Prophet of God said: The children of Adam ll no vessel worse than their stomach. Sufcietnt for him is a few morsel to keep his back straight. If he must eat more, then a third should be his food, a third for his drink and and a third for his air (Sunan At Tirmidi) Allah has sent Ramadan to us to purify our hearts. Though we may lose sight of it, during Ramadan while our bodies are fasting, our hearts should be feasting. In this celebration of self-restraint, we should also be celebrating a degree of nourishment for our hearts that we do not normally nd the rest of the year. We should be revelling in this break Allah has given us to look inward revelling in the freedom we nd from the addictions and preoccupations that normally chain our hearts to our base desires. We should nd joy in the liberation that comes with moving closer to Allah.

The maximum recommendation for salt is just 6g/day - just one teaspoon! It is easy to see how it can add up over a day. Getting used to eating less salt only takes a few weeks, so use Ramadan 2011 to try and cut back on how much salt you use in cooking and at the table. Try taking a salt challenge and focus on a different tip or reducing salt in a different meal each week throughout Ramadan. visit www.actiononsalt.org.uk for more information about reducing salt. behalal.org is a partner with Consensus Action on Salt and Health, which is a group concerned with salt and its effects on health.

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Behalal Health Focus.

DIABETES a major global health problem
Ramadan is an excellent time to make positive changes in our health however, Islam is not a religion that has been delivered to make lives difcult and those who cannot fast are not under obligation to do so. If you have health issues always consult with your medical carer prior to fasting.

Evidence from scientists

An international study funded by the World Health Organisation and the Gates Foundation has been published in the Lancet this year revealing that more than 350 million people in the world now have diabetes. Diabetics have inadequate blood sugar control, a condition that can lead to heart disease and strokes, as well as damage to kidneys, nerves and the retina. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 85-95% of cases and is linked to lifestyle and obesity. It develops when the body fails to produce enough insulin to break down glucose, inating blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children whose bodies are unable to make the hormone insulin to convert glucose from food into energy. This is known as an autoimmune disorder and daily insulin injections are needed. About three million deaths a year are attributed to diabetes and associated conditions in which blood sugar levels are disrupted.

Diabetes is one of the biggest causes of mortality worldwide, and our study has shown that it is becoming more common almost everywhere. It is set to become the single largest burden on world health care systems, explains one of the studys main authors, Professor Majid Ezzati, of Imperial College London. Blood from 2.7 million participants aged 25 and over from across the world over a three-year period was analysed. Glucose levels were measured in blood after participants had fasted for 12 to 14 hours.

Glucose levels were also particularly high in south Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, central Asia, north Africa and the Middle East. The region with the lowest glucose levels was sub-Saharan Africa, followed by east and south-east Asia. Eastern Europes diabetes prevalence, while not low, also changed little over the three-decade period. The dramatic and disturbing increase is blamed by scientists on the spread of a western-style diet to developing nations, which is causing rising levels of obesity. Researchers also say that increased life expectancy is playing a major role.

The global picture

In the US glucose levels were found to have risen at more than twice the rate of western Europe over the past three decades. In wealthy nations, diabetes and glucose levels were highest in the US, Malta, New Zealand and Spain, and lowest in the Netherlands, Austria and France. Other badly affected countries included many Pacic island nations. As Ezzati put it: There has been an explosion of cases there. In the Marshall Islands, for example, one in three women and one in four men has diabetes. Saudi Arabia was also reported to have very high rates.

Evidence from the Quran and Hadith

Diet plays a very important role in the daily life of a Muslim. There are many verses in the Qurn which draw mans attention towards his self and which invite him to carefully study his body and soul and the nature of their mutual relationship. By doing so, one will rstly nd in it strong evidence of the existence of Allah and that Allah has not created mankind and all other beings of this world without any purpose as mentioned in the Noble Qurn: Our Lord! You have not created (all) this without purpose. (3:191)

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Behalal Health Focus.

Islam and Health
It is therefore necessary to ensure that the physical body is kept healthy so that the soul and spirit may also remain healthy thus in turn aiding the believer in the service of both his spiritual and material attainment. Diet therefore, plays an important role for this purpose. For this reason Islam has prohibited certain foods due to their ill effects and permitted all other pure, good and clean food products. Allah Taala says in the Noble Qurn: O Believers! Eat of the good and pure (lawful) that We have provided you with and be grateful to Allah, if you truly worship Him. (2:172) Muslims in general are advised to eat good and pure things and not to indulge in impure, bad and harmful things thus following their open enemy Shaitaan: O People! Eat of what is lawful and good on the Earth and do not follow the footsteps of Shaitaan, for he is your open enemy. (2:168) In the verses previously mentioned the general principle with regard to permissible foods has been stated. The Qurn further goes on to specify the types of food prohibited in the following verse: He (Allah) has only forbidden you (from eating) dead animals, blood, the esh of swine, and that (animal) over which the name of other than Allah has been invoked. (2:173, 16:115) The four items that have been mentioned in the above verse are absolutely forbidden in Islam for reasons best known to Allah. However, through research, some of them such as carrion, blood and swine esh have proved to be injurious to human health. Whilst swine esh is harmful to moral health and food over which the name of any other than Allah has been invoked is harmful to spiritual health. Other prohibited items have also been mentioned in different chapters of the Holy Qurn. In Surah alMaidah the following have also been mentioned along with the four previously mentioned. There are those animals which have been killed by strangling, or a violent blow, a headlong fall, being gored to death and those which have been partially eaten by a wild animal and not slaughtered before death, also those which have been sacriced on the name of idols.

A Balanced Diet - Prescribed in the Qurn

The Qurn has not restricted itself in merely mentioning the permissible and impermissible foods but goes to the extent of giving useful tips regarding a balanced diet, a diet which contains most if not all the useful ingredients required for the growth, strengthening and repairing of the human body. These ingredients include animal protein, fat, calcium, iron, salts, etc. The most balanced diets consist of meat, sh, fresh milk, cheese and fruit. Both direct and indirect references have been made regarding the afore mentioned. The reference regarding the importance of meat protein in the human diet is given in the following verse: And the cattle, He has created them for you, in them there is warmth (clothing) and numerous benets, and of them you eat. (16:5) In this verse special reference has been given to the importance of eating despite having said, numerous benets. Reference regarding other types of meat has also been given such as the meat of fowls in the following verse: And the esh of fowls that they desire. (56:21) Fish has always been considered as a food of very high protein and is very important for human consumption. Allah says: And from them both (fresh and salt water) you eat fresh tender meat (sh). (35:12) The usefulness of fresh milk is stressed in these words: And verily in the cattle there is a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies, from between excretion and blood, pure milk, palatable to the drinkers. (16:66) The benets of fruits as good nourishment can be understood from this verse: And from the fruits of date palms and grapes, you desire strong drink and a goodly provision. (16:67) Similarly there are verses which cover the whole range of fruits, salads, and vegetables which also play an important role in a nutritious, balanced diet:

It is He who sends down rain from the sky, and with it We bring forth vegetation of all kinds, and out of it We bring forth thick clustered grain. And out of the date palm and its spate come clusters of dates hanging low and near, and gardens of grapes, olives and pomegranates each similar (in kind) yet different (in variety and taste). Look at their fruits when then begin to bear, and the ripeness thereof. (6:99) Islam, being a complete religion, also teaches and advises the believer as to what the best method of eating is. The believers are advised to be moderate in every aspect of life. Direct reference has been made in the Noble Qurn regarding moderation in eating and drinking. And eat and drink, but waste not in extravagance, certainly He (Allah) likes not those who waste in extravagance. (7:31)

Moderation and warning against over eating - The Teachings of the Prophet(s)
The Best of Teachers and the Mercy of the Worlds is reported to have claried the meaning and limit of moderation in a tradition in which he is reported to have said that ones worst weakness is ones belly. If you must eat make sure you ll one third of your stomach with food, one third with water and leave one third for air i.e. leave it empty. In another narration, the reason for moderation has been clearly stated. The Prophet(s) is reported to have said: The stomach is the tank of the body and the veins go down to it. When the stomach is healthy the veins come back in a healthy condition, but when it is in a bad condition, they return diseased. In short, believers are advised to always take care of their stomachs and refrain from foods and practices that might pollute the stomach with various diseases. In order to do so the Prophet(s) is reported to have advised believers to always stop eating before their stomachs are completely full i.e. stop eating when the urge to eat more is still present. Again this advice was followed it wouldnt allow us to become obese and at risk of illnesses like diabetes.

Are you over weight?

Work out your BMI (http://www.bbc.co.uk/ health/tools/bmi_calculator/bmiimperial_ index.shtml)

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Behalal Health Focus.

Fasting conrmed to be benecal by modern science
In recent years, a number of academic studies have demonstrated the health benets of fasting. (http:// intermountainhealthcare.org/hospitals/imed/about/ news/Pages/home.aspx?NewsID=713) According to a paper published in April by the Intermountain Medical Centre Heart Institute in Utah, it can lower the risk of coronary artery disease and diabetes, and keep blood cholesterol levels in check. The researchers found fasting could also reduce other cardiac risk factors such as excess weight, blood sugar levels and triglycerides.

Eating less conrmed by scientists

Diabetes UK has conrmed that preliminary research suggests type 2 diabetes could be reversed in as little as seven days if sufferers went on a crash diet. Adherence to a strict 600 calorie-a-day diet causes fat levels in the pancreas to plummet, restoring normal function. Professor Roy Taylor, of Newcastle University, called the discovery a radical change in understanding type 2 diabetes. We used the 600-calorie diet to test a hypothesis. What I can tell you denitively is that if people lose substantial (http://www.webmd.com/diet/ tc/healthy-weight-what-is-a-healthy-weight) weight by normal means, they will lose their diabetes, says study head Roy Taylor,MD, director of the Newcastle Magnetic Resonance Centre at Newcastle University in England.

Check in to fasting
In the United States there is a centre specically established to allow people to reside and fast for up to 40 days! So we got in contact with the man behind the centre to nd out more. Dr Alan Goldhamer is a world leading expert on fasting for aid in diabetes therapy. We advocate a plant based SOS-free (sugar, oil, salt) diet in the treatment of a variety of chronic diseases including high blood pressure, diabetes and autoimmune disorders and the obesity the contributes to all of these conditions. I believe that the articial stimulation of the dopamine cascade in the brain by the chemicals we add to our food (sugar, oil and salt) is responsible for a dietary pleasure trap that results in obesity and the disease of dietary excess. I do not believe that token changes in diet will result in substantive changes in the health of indiviudals. See the website for more information: www.TrueNorthHealth.com Allah swt has in his innite mercy as decreed fasting for the believer and its only recent research which conrms the benets of advice given to those following Islam 14,00 years ago. SubhanAllah! We hope this article as inspired you to start making positive changes as advised in Islam and science today. Please always seek the advice of our medical provider if you are receiving medical treatment.

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Eat healthy. Eat differently.

By Rashid Messoudi, Medical Herbalist

1. Break the fast with a BIG glass of water preferably warm. (take three dates before or afterwards, if you want) Aim: to prepare the gut for the unfortunately hefty meal to come next; 2. Start iftar with a very healthy vegetable soup which I often prescribe (with variations according to the case history of the patient) to my patients as a detox especially in chronic, degenerative diseases. Such soup will include: fundamentally, ONIONS, celery, leek, turnips (mooli) and carrots (but one can add parsnips, Swedes). Some 5mn before the end of cooking, you must add A LOT of PARSLEY as well as GARLIC to personal tolerance (the more the better, and to conceal the possible garlic smell in the congregational prayer, take mint sweets, chew peppermint, etc.). Each adult should squeeze one FRESH half a lemon in his own serving. LEMON IS ACID ONLY OUTSIDE THE BODY IT BECOMES ALKALINE AS SOON AS IT ENTERS THE BODY. In North Africa, traditional midwives squeeze drops of lemon in the eyes of the newly born to clarify the eyes. Lemon is an extremely useful health ingredient with important medicinal properties. 3. Then only is it advisable to go for the heavier meals, preferring veal to red meat, chicken to veal and oily shes to any meat of course, whenever possible. 4. Add two teaspoonfuls of extra virgin, cold-pressed olive oil to ones own serving. 5. Take a varied salad preferably just after the soup (after the main meal, if you prefer): lettuce, celery, grated carrots, tomatoes sliced JUST prior to serving the salad, and good quality olives. For this prepare a dressing with lemon/apple cider vinegar (extremely health), olive oil, black pepper and some nely cut parsley. 6. Take as much fruit of the season as possible, preferably away from iftar. 7. Banish coke and pepsi. Prefer home-made lemon drinks. Two lemons squeezed in a litre of spring water to be sweetened with a bit of honey, failing which whole, pure, unrened sugar would do. Healthy drink for all the family and very refreshing, too.

We are a people who do not eat until hungry, and who do not eat to full satisfaction. Fast, you will become healthy. The Prophet Muhammad (S)

8. To end the food and stimulate digestion, it is adviseable to prepare green tea with mint/peppermint the North African way (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya...). Mint is an excellent stomach remedy and research has found that, apart from helping with weight loss (long term!), it has preventive activity against prostate cancer and breast cancer. 9. Last, but not least, a. Do cut down on fried food. Prefer baking/grilling; b. Do not cook with ghee (although a new trend is trying to prove ghee is, after all, good for you); c. Banish commercial juices labelled JUICE DRINKS as they hardly contain any really fruit juice with on the contrary a lot of sugar and water; d. Keep away from the three whites: white sugar, white our, white salt. Replace them with honey/100% pure organic, unrened sugar; whole weat our and unrened sea salt (looks greyish and wet); e. Tinned food and ready-made salads are unhealthy and should be avoided whenever possible. f. Be moderate with the sweets. All these tips imply the will to change deeplyrooted habits, but also a nancial effort. But if only we become aware of the devastating health implications of modern, westernised food, we will not hesitate to make the jump for the sake of our childrens health and their own offsprings. So, how about coming out of Ramadan refreshed spiritually and physically, with that nice feeling of having strengthened ones bond with the Creator and strengthened ones body too? It is up to us! It is a truism that bad habits die hard, but we also all know that when there is a will, there is a way. Allah describes the food we should eat as halalan tayyiban. Admittedly, we do strive to have halal meat. But is our food tayyiban, that is to say wholesome? Well, that aspect of our modern eating habits is really frightening and will be dealt with another time. Br Rashid Messoudi is a contributory member from the Ummah to the behalal cause. To contact br Rashid Email: phyto.clinic@gmail.com Website: www.alternatives-in-healthcare.co.uk

Ramadan is a moment of spiritual cleansing. It should also, normally, be a time for a physical detoxication. Observing a few culinary tips and improving eating habits will be very benecial

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Ramadan goes to Hollywood.

A-list sports nutritionist from the USA gives a healthy fasting script.

During Ramadan, depending on your goals, I really recommend that you limit cardio to 2 days a week at the most. This is again to preserve as much lean muscle tissue as possible. There is actually research showing the health benets of fasting. It is truly a physical purication. According to a study published in the reputable European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the researchers concluded that no detrimental effects on health have as yet been directly attributed to negative water balance at the levels that may be produced in Ramadan. Other research has actually shown cardiovascular benets of fasting during Ramadan that is if you can avoid the IBS (no, not irritable bowel syndrome) but the dreaded Iftar Binging Syndrome! It is vital to eat moderate to small meals even after iftar.

This will also allow you to consume your all-important post workout meal or shake which is essential to fat loss. If this is too late then the next best time to weight train is about 1 hour after Iftar before taraweh prayer. You could do a short but intense 20-30 minute workout. The best time to do cardio work for maximum fat loss is before suhuryep thats the truth. Of course, most people I know will not want to get up at around 3: 30 AM and do cardio! If you CAN pull this off then the best thing to do is get up and drink plenty of water with a cup of coffee, green tea, or oolong tea, wait 30 minutes and perform 30-45 minutes of moderate intensity cardio work like a brisk walk on a treadmill. If this is out of the question for you, then the next best time to do cardio is approximately 30-45 minutes after a light iftar (I will dene this shortly). Short, high intensity cardio like sprinting is actually great to do during Ramadan. It takes less than 10 minutes and provides maximum benet in terms of fat burning and lean muscle preservation! This isnt driving miss Daisy cardioits very intensive-Ex. Sprint for 20-30 sec at full speed (like a dog is chasing you!) and walk for 1 min. Do 3-5 cycles like that and youre good! Start slow of course and work your way up. So now you know when to train, its time to learn what to eat and drink (think water, water, and more water!).

Training Times
The best time to do a weight training workout is NOT while fasting. This can create way too much muscle breakdown and cause a signicant rise in the catabolic hormone cortisol. Training while in a state of dehydration can decrease strength signicantly. Training while you are fasting can actually be more detrimental than benecial! The best time to weight train during Ramadan is after Taraweh prayers at night. This will insure that you will have several meals and plenty of water in your system before going to the gym.

Surviving a 16 hour fast while improving focus, health, energy, and tness For Women
By: Rehan Jalali, C.S.N. One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how can I workout and eat properly while I am fasting? Most people see the blessed month of Ramadan as a time when they will surely lose strength and or lean muscle mass and some people think they can only maintain during this month (Many women actually gain weight during Ramadan). This cannot be further from the truth. In fact, if you use some of the strategies I am about to share with you, you can make some of your best gains during this month! Its all about maximizing nutrient uptake, maintaining proper hydration, and modifying key fat burning/muscle building hormones in your favor during this month. And of course PREPARATION If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail! Plus, how can you truly maximize this month spiritually if your body is sick, tired, and your mind isnt sharp?

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Ramadan goes to Hollywood.

Suhur meal (morning/pre-dawn)
For suhur, it is imperative to drink plenty of water, eat a good blend of protein, carbohydrates, and essential fatthats right good fats have many fat burning and muscle building properties and their importance is even greater during Ramadan. Some good suhur foods include: Egg whites (1 yolk) Chicken breast Oatmeal (multi-grain or steel cut) Cream of wheat Protein shake Cinnamon Bananas Raw, Dark Honey Raisins or dates Fibrous vegetables This will help increase the feeling of fullness as well. All natural peanut butter Flax seed and Fish oil - A great and tasty brand is Omega Swirl from Barleans Theres a version for Women as well. (www.barleans.com) Olive oil preferably extra virgin (which means its cold processed and the essential fatty acids are preserved) Plenty of water

Iftar (the evening opening of the fast):

Three Dates and a Nutrition Shake-1 scoop w/12 oz water (Syngex and Zero Carb from VPX, Low Carb protein from MRM, and Super Food by Endless Youth and Life-1 SCOOP of 1 of these w/ 8 oz water) Plenty of water For cardio workouts --Do cardio 45 minutes after this meal for 30-45 minutes at a moderate pace or do a sprint workout if you have less time and then have the next meal before taraweh. (Have a cup of green tea, Oolong tea, or coffee with Iftar on cardio days)

For weight training days: Eat another food meal before Taraweh like chicken breast (or baked salmon), brown rice and some veggies OR Baked Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Orange Roughy, or Mahi mahi), sweet potato, and a garden salad or some steamed vegetables. Drink plenty of water during taraweh Go to the gym after taraweh. (If you pray 20 rakahs, then have a protein bar in the middle of taraweh). Drink plenty of water during the workout. After the workout, have another Nutrition Shake lots of water of course. Then sleep 45 minutes later or stay up all night eating and working like I do!

Iftar meal
Eat and drink but not to excess A key time for rehydration. The wisdom in Islam is never ending. We break our fast with dates and water but if you investigate this nutritionally, you will see that dates are very unique in their nutrient content. They contain very high levels of potassium (much more than a banana), a key re-hydration mineral and a special carbohydrate blend that enhances hydration above and beyond water alone. They contain a special blend of glucose and fructose for short and long term energy. They also have a special nutrient called beta D-glucan which is a soluble ber that can enhance satiety and digestive health. You should also eat some quality protein at iftar time as well. I recommend three dates and one scoop of a protein powder. Drink plenty of water by keeping a water bottle with you at all times after sunset! Then 1 1.5 hours later have a food meal (or follow the schedule above for cardio). Then during taraweh, depending if you pray 8 or 20 rakahs, have a protein bar (like Power Crunch or Think Thin) or ready to drink protein shake in the middle (not while you are praying of course!) or have another small protein and complex carbohydrate meal after the 8 rakahsdrink plenty of water if you have a protein bar. Then go train about 30-45 minutes after eating the bar. You can actually do 20 minutes of cardio and 20 minutes of weight training at this time. After the workout, also have another nutrition shake (as mentioned a few lines ago) with plenty of water.

Top 5 healthy foods (especially important during Ramadan)

1) Dates They contain a unique blend of glucose and fructose and have a very high potassium content (about 64% more than bananas). They have a nutrient called beta-D-glucan which is a soluble ber that has health benets and can increase the feeling of fullness. 2) Raw, Unltered Honey - It contains many phytochemicals and avanoids that can enhance health. Honey is very good for increasing energy. It is an excellent source of antioxidants. In fact, ORAC tests show it has the highest level of antioxidants of virtually any natural food on earth! It even has anti-bacterial effects. Take 1-2 tablespoons daily. 3) Fish Eating sh regularly can have positive effects on health. The sh oils EPA and DHA have been shown to improve brain function, enhance cardiovascular health, and reduce inammation among other things. Some of the best sh are cold water wild salmon, orange roughy, deep sea Cod, sea bass, Ahi Tuna, Mahi mahi, and tilapia. 4) Figs They contain key mineral such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. They are also a great source of ber and can support healthy blood sugar levels. Figs are an alkaline food which means they help balance the Ph of the body making it less acidic. 5) Olive Oil - Contains omega 9 or oleic fatty acids. It has been shown to increase the good cholesterol (HDL) while lowering bad cholesterol (LDL). It also seems to have some antioxidant effects. Look for extra virgin olive oil (cold-pressed). Cooking with it can lower some of its benets. Add it to food after it is cooked! *The content of this article is for information purposes only. Please consult a physician before starting any nutrition, training, or supplementation program. http://www.rehanjalali.com/

SAMPLE Ramadan MEAL PLAN for fat loss and muscle gain
(*This plan is for a 130 lb female, please adjust amounts for bodyweight)

Suhur:
Eat 3-4 egg whites (one yolk) cup of plain oatmeal w/ cinnamon, raisins and a small banana 1 teaspoon all-natural peanut butter, almond butter or olive oil or ax seed oil (1 tablespoon Barleans Omega Swirl) Plenty of water (16-24 oz.) Womens blend-2 pills multi-vitamin/mineral

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Behalal and the UK Halal Market.

The European Halal food market is worth approximately 12.5bn serving over 50m Muslims a population estimated to have grown by more than 140% in the last decade (according to Halal Industries Group) it is little wonder that mainstream retailers and wholesalers want to tap into the Halal market.
One of behalal.org objectives is to look at the wider picture and future impacts on Halal consumables. The focus in Europe for the last year has been on Halal meat and press reports on the wide sale of Halal meat being eaten unwittingly by non-Muslims. We doubt whether Muslims knew about this wide sale of Halal meat and whether it met even the Shariah requirement.

Some animal welfare scientists have conrmed that when slaughter is carried out without the intervention of pre-stunning it is very effective. Islam has extensive rules that require humans to treat animals kindly and with mercy. These rules are wide ranging and include signicant protections for the welfare of working animals and the humane slaughter of animals for consumption. The rules of Islamic law on animal welfare, established in the seventh century laid clear guidelines on animal welfare well before any country today. Muslims should be sat on the same side as those protecting animal welfare rights than being pushed to the far side as shown in recent times. The irony of the European wide witch hunt against Halal and Kosher being inhumane is that in Washington (USA), the State courts ruling on 1st August 2011, conrmed that it deemed ritual slaughter to be humane and therefore, lawful. http://www.ou.org/public_affairs/article/90510 Please play your part to have your voted counted, see behalal.org polls and campaigns and join our mailing list so we can keep you updated.

Industry News!
A newly formed organisation, Association of NonStun Abattoirs Ltd (ANSA) was set up in July 2011 to combat the issue surrounding the labelling of Halal meat as well to address the uncertainty of Halal meat in the industry. ANSA consists of abattoirs that carry out 100% only slaughter without the use of prestunning for poultry, lamb, sheep and beef production. Watch out for more information on how this will impact on the Halal industry and things for consumers to look out for. We hope this association starts the step change into greater transparency and the high standards expected of Halal meat production.

Labelling of only Halal and Kosher meat only still on the cards
The European Council and Parliament in June rejected the requirement that all kosher and Halal meat should be labelled meat from slaughter without stunning in the food labelling regulation. But they agreed that this proposal should be looked at as part of the animal welfare legislation. Although the proposal was rejected it was compounded by biased tabloid media coverage mainly attacking Halal slaughter as being barbaric if the animal was not pre-stunned. Where animals were pre-stunned, it was still rejected due to the prayer being said over the animal. A prayer they say is to an idol! The Muslim community response has been weak up to date compared to the Jewish lobbying community who have been very active to protect Kosher Rights which consist of slaughter without the use of pre-stunning at the time of slaughter. The majority of meat slaughtered as Halal is pre-stunned in the UK. Behalal representatives attended a meeting as part of a consultation with Agriculture minister, Jim Paice In London to discuss their concerns over labelling and welfare issues earlier this year. The majority of the attendees were in favour of labelling of all slaughter methods to allow all consumers to make an informed choice.

Concerns were raised over animal cruelty in mainstream slaughter houses http://news.sky.com/ home/uk-news/article/16038834 as lmed by animal welfare group Animal Aid. And concerns that prestun methods were not always ineffective leaving the animal in more distress. A request for Government to look at all the methods objectively than a blanket target on Halal and Kosher slaughter methods. The problems with mainstream slaughter are not being made public, except when done under cover as seen in the news report above. The stories around Halal slaughter have not been accurate which led behalal to raise complaints with the Press Commission. A real risk of BSE remains which poses a public health problem that most scientists believe the disease is contracted by eating the brain or spinal cord of an infected carcass. (The spinal cord is left in tact for Halal and Kosher slaughter). The disease in humans is called new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, or vCJD/nvCJD. It is believed that the disease is transmitted by the consumption of beef products that are infected with the disease.

EU animal welfare changes and impact on Halal slaughter

The new European legislation on animal slaughter (EU Regulation 1099/2009) must be implemented by all Member States by 1st January 2013. Its aim is to address animal welfare. Issues. The UK government is currently drafting legislation to comply with the Regulation BUT they are likely to include additional provisions, which exceed the basic requirements demanded. The draft UK legislation will then be made available to the general public for consultation. It is imperative that Muslim consumers, scholars, certiers and industry respond to the consultation in a way that protects and promotes Halal slaughter. behalal will issue out guidance on how and what to respond so keep checking the website for new information!

ANSA sticker to appear in UK shops Whilst we are on the subject of stunning the Halal meat industry is in need of a review; the use of pre-stunning methods as being permissible based on species (use of electrical pre-stunning will have a different impact on a chicken than when used on a cow) see http://behalal. org/consumer/slaughter-methods-explored/ and; varying standards of training and methods that are used and the people involved in certifying/endorsing the different methods labelling the end product as being Halal. To help all consumers we have started to compile a list of UK based abattoirs showing all the different Halal slaughter methods, where non-Halal and pigs are slaughtered on the same site together with the EEC number to help consumers and those in industry buying to sell on.

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Behalal and the UK Halal Market.

Organic Halal and Kosher meat petition.
Muslims are aware of the high standards Islam sets for consumables and animal welfare but they are often kept in the dark about how the animal was raised and reared. And feel excluded from quality meat and the availability of organic meat. With 20% of Halal red meat being eaten by the Muslim community in the UK, consumers would be better off buying quality produce and eating less following concerns of eating too much red meat on health. Organic produce is not just about taste but also about not consuming herbicides, pesticides and fungicides on fruit and vegetables, or growth hormones and antibiotics in animals, particularly cows. Organic ts the Tayyab criteria of Halal consumables and these stipulations were set in place over 1400 years ago. The Soil Association will not issue an organic certication when an animal is not pre-stunned before slaughter even though the animals have been reared adhering to the criteria set by the Association up until slaughter. A spokesman for the Soil Association, the biggest certifying body, said: We accept that poorly handled stunning can cause distress, but that doesnt change the basic fact [of the requirement for pre-stunning]. If two chickens are raised in exactly the same way and sent to the same abattoir where one ceases to be organic because of the last few seconds of its life by a licensed slaughterman raises serious questions. In addition, this is overseen by an Ofcial Veterinary Surgeon whos job it is to address animal welfare issues. Consumers wishing to eat Halal meat have become more aware of the issue surrounding pre-stunning and there is a shift for wanting non-stunned meat and the idea that consumers are blocked from having organic meat appears to be unjustied especially as the pre-stun methods are not always effective. There remains doubt in the minds of the consumer of pre-stunning methods and the prophetic advice to Muslims where there is doubt is to avoid. A campaign is being spearheaded by Spencer Shaw of Jewish events website JewPro, advised by the London School of Jewish Studies Rabbi Natan Levy and behalal.org to petition against the Soil Associations stance on this issue. Soil Association head Helen Browning told Rabbi Levy that we are as keen as you are to nd a way to offer organic kosher meat. However, sadly, I really do feel that the method of slaughter as set out in the kashrut laws is not compatible with the Soil Associations principles on humane animal slaughter and any change would require compromises that would simply not be satisfactory to both. Please show your support and sign the following petition: http://www.citypro.co/petition/kosher-andhallal-organic-meat/

Animal Protein to be allowed in Poultry feed?

Processed Animal Protein (PAP) is currently banned in the EU. A recent opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) stated that cross feeding (poultry meal for pigs and pig meal for poultry while avoiding cannibalism) could be allowed for monogastric animals (i.e. Poultry, Pigs and Ostriches), as it would not involve any risk http://www.efsa.europa. eu/fr/efsajournal/doc/1947.pdf (link to EFSA report). The lifting of the feed ban provision for ruminants is not expected. A further meeting is expected in September for a vote by member states and the timetable for adoption of the new Regulation will occur in 2012. This will impact those producing Halal meat unless animal free feed is secured.

Haraam/doubtful ingredients
The food industry is under increasing pressure to tell us what we are eating and what ingredients are being used. However, not all ingredients have to be listed if in trace levels or where there is no legal requirement to do so. Whats the story with Halal foods? To list a few to be weary of that need further investigation: Trans-fats (known as partially/hydrogenated oils, also found in monoglycerides or diglycerides) Known as killer fats used widely in industry which affect your cholesterol and linked to heart attacks, obesity, diabetes, infertility. Mono-diglycerides are produced from glycerin (can be from an animal source and possibly haraam if not from halal slaughter) and oil, which are heated to very high temperatures to allow the fat molecules to rearrange with the glycerin and produce trans fats. This process changes the oil, naturally liquid at room temperature, into a hard or semi-hard grey-white fatty substance. This [partially] hydrogenated vegetable oil is virtually avourless and increases the shelf life of products, making it an ideal for the food industry. Check the label: partially/hydrogenated oils, monoglycerides or diglycerides. There is no legal requirement to label trans fats. For consumers of Halal foods they simply dont t the tayyab requirement as proven by overwhelming scientic evidence to the detrimental impact on health. Industry take note!

Pork and beef proteins found previously (Food Standards Agencys (FSA) survey 2009) in chicken pumped with saline. Some food manufacturers have used the proteins as a method of bulking up chicken meat with water. The bovine and porcine protein powder allow the chicken to hold far more water, and gives unscrupulous manufacturers the opportunity to sell their meat at a higher price to wholesalers. The FSAs advise was If you choose not to eat pork or beef you may wish to avoid chicken that contains hydrolysed proteins. The pork and beef proteins were only used in miniscule amounts and were discovered when the FSA tested a small sample of products using a new DNA technique. Time for more testing to ensure the Halal integrity of a product is being maintained. Meat glue? It makes pieces of beef, lamb, chicken or sh that would normally be thrown out stick together so closely that it looks like a solid piece of meat. Meat glue is transglutaminase, an enzyme in powder form, derived from beef and pork blood plasma (HYPERLINK http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ TransglutaminaseSee the Wikipedia description of it here). Again need for further investigation. If you feel you can contribute and help in the investigations, lobby together to help protect Halal consumables please contact us.

If you feel you can contribute and help in the investigations, lobby together to help protect Halal consumables please contact us.

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Behalal putting your food where our mouth is.

behalal pilot project to reduce salt, fat and eliminate trans fats to full the Halal and tayyab requirements for improved food quality for health.
We have completed our rst project with Mustaqs, a large family run establishment serving asian sweets and poplar Halal savoury takeaways for 40 years based in Birmingham. Through working in mutual co-operation we encouraged and educated the owners to understand the true understanding of halal/tayyab food i.e. that it must not be detrimental to the health of the consumer. By making a few changes to improve the fried foods. Its widely known and reported that too much salt, fat and trans-fats have an adverse effect on health and by placing a focus on understanding the concept of halal/tayyab we hope it will get those who claim to produce and sell halal food to make a step change in the right direction. This is compounded by the fact that more people are eating out and purchasing more take-away than cooking at home and with the abundance of businesses supplying Halal foods, its become more convenient and sometimes cheaper to purchase bought in foods. The net result is that the food being consumed often contains more salt and fat than if it were cooked at home which means regular consumption may lead to a greater risk of health problems especially where a particular community may have a higher pre-disposition to diabetes, stroke, heart disease, obesity, etc.

Our objective is to make the changes on the ground which we hope go unnoticed but have a positive impact on the health of the local community which are unlikely to stop the practise of buying or eating out. We have been supported and guided by Food Scientists from John Moores University using the latest in scientic understanding and applying it to frying practises to obtain the best possible method and quality recommended for improved food for health. Oils used for commercial frying of foods all undergo signicant changes during frying as the oil is continuously and repeatedly used at elevated temperatures in the presence of air and moisture. Dr Leo Stevenson says this causes thermal and oxidative changes in the oil, including the formation of volatile and non-volatile decomposition products. Such oil degradation increases the amount of oil/fats absorbed during deep-fat frying. From a nutritional perspective, it is the non-volatile degradation products of frying oils that are the most relevant; since they remain in the oil, are absorbed into fried foods, and are subsequently ingested. Diets high in these products are associated with cellular alteration, reduced endothelial function and functioning of blood vessels including arteries and veins as well as the internal lining of the heart and lymphatics. A diet high in frying oil content has been shown to induce glucose intolerance in rats. The end result, virtually no trans fats in the oil, reduced fat absorption and salt in all the takeaway savouries and chutneys. Both producer and customers happy about the changes. Listen to bite size recording of our work in a BBC Asian Network Special Report-ToxicTakeaways: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b011g9b1

Healthier food recipes in takeaways and restaurants

Were not stopping here, we have teamed up with a chef behind a project to re-formulate recipes as shown in work done in Lincoln: http://www.healthiertakeaways.co.uk Please contact us for further information mail to: info@behalal.org if you wish to nominate your takeaway/restaurant or if you own your own business and want to take charge to make the change yourself.

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Ramadan. Start as you mean to go on.

We leave the blessed month of Ramadan, its beautiful days and its fragrant nights. We leave the month of the Quran, taqwa, patience, struggle, mercy, forgiveness and protection from punishment on the day of judgment.

This is not thankfulness for blessings and favors, nor is it the sign of acceptance of ones actions, rather this is opposition to favors and absence of thankfulness. From signs that ones deeds are accepted is that he or she has improved in his or her obedience to Allah. And remember when your Lord proclaimed, If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor] [Quran 14:7]. So if a person is truly thankful to his Lord, you will see him guided to more obedience and distanced from actions that are disliked by God. A Muslim must continuously be in the state of obedience and God-consciousness. A believer knows that the Lord of Ramadan is also the Lord of all times and places. So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah]. [Quran 11:112]

Continue Quran
Reading of the Quran and understanding it is not only for Ramadan, rather it is for all times.

Continue Good Deeds

The requirement of showing forgiveness and compassion to people does not end with Ramadan. Know that Allah is the most forgiving and companionate and loves all who are forgiving and companionate. Righteous actions are for all times and all places, so strive and beware of laziness. O Allah, Who turns the hearts, keep our hearts steadfast upon Your prescribed path. we ask Allah to accept from us and you our fasting, our prayers and other righteous actions, that our condition after Ramadan be a better one, that the state of our humanity improves, that we are granted honor and that we truly submit to our Lord. Ameen

What Have We Gained From Ramadan?

Ramadan is a school for strengthening iman (faith), an opportunity to recharge ones spiritual batteries and to acquire ones provision for the rest of the year. The noble month is a true school of transformation in which we train our inner self to change our actions, habits and manners that are in variance with the Laws of Allah. Verily, God does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves. (Quran 13:11) If you have fullled the requirements of taqwa (God-consciousness), fasted the month, prayed in it with sincerity, and strove against your soul, praised and thanked Allah for all His blessings, and asked Him for steadfastness then you have beneted from Ramadan. After the end of this blessed month, to revert back to habits of before Ramadan would be like one who stitches a beautiful garment and then deliberately destroys it. Or a person who earns a fortune trading throughout the day, then when the night comes, he throws away all that he earned. What would people say about such a person? This is the condition of one who returns to ill habits after Ramadan and leaves righteous actions. After he was favored with the blessing of obedience and enjoyment of communicating with Allah he returned to ignorant actions. How deprived are the people who know God only in Ramadan! Falling short in ones commitment to Islam after Ramadan is manifested in many ways, including: Leaving the compulsory prayers, after they lled mosques for Taraweeh prayers, thus going to the masjid for recommended prayers and leaving obligatory ones, and a return to a life of material and social indulgence without God-consciousness.

Continue Fasting
If the fasting in Ramadan has ended, then there remains voluntary fasting, such as fasting six days in Shawwal, on Mondays and Thursdays, the three days in the middle of the month, the days of Aashoora and Arafat, and others.

Continue Prayers
If standing in prayer at night during Ramadan has ended, then there remains voluntary night prayer throughout the year.

Continue Charity
If Zakat, charity and zakat ul-tr of Ramadan have ended, then there is the option of sadaqa, and many other doors to charity and voluntary actions still remain open.

Many questions and numerous thoughts come to the mind of the sincere Muslim, who self reects with truthfulness. Have we fullled the requirements of taqwa and graduated from Ramadan school with the diploma of God-consciousness? Have we fought our souls and desires and defeated them, or have we been overtaken by our customs and blind imitations? Have we performed our actions in a way that fullls the conditions for receiving mercy, forgiveness and release from chastisement?

Abu Huraira reported Allaahs Messenger (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) as saying: He who called (people) to righteousness, there would be reward (assured) for him like the rewards of those who adhered to it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect. And he who called (people) to error, he shall have to carry (the burden) of its sin, like those who committed it, without their sins being diminished in any respect. (Muslim, 6470)

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help us

join us

behalal.org is a not-for-prot organisation, dedicated to galvanise and motivate the ummah to work together for the greater good to protect the Halal diet. And this is why we need volunteers to help us and join us.
We need people who will create a positive image of Halal; safeguard Halal rights and drive up standards reinforcing the true application of Halal and tayyib. Halal is not all about slaughter methods, we need to bring back the true meaning of Halal which is a holistic lifestyle system perfected by Allah (SWT) as a mercy on Mankind, if practised, leads to a healthy body, mind and soul. Behalal.org resources are limited; we rely on donations of time and sometimes money to keep us going and our cause going. If you can help in any way, if you have inuence or skills that will help the ummahs needs please raise your hand to help us and join us.

Contact info@behalal.org
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Read this. Make a difference. And help others.

This next section features our sponsor ads. This guide has only been possible by their generosity and help. Some of the sponsors will also give a percentage of their sales to us and we will pass this onto one charity this year, the womens refuge charity National Zakat Foundation. So please please please be generous buy from our sponsors and in turn they will help our main cause.

Sponsors:
Saaf. FX Cosmetics. Saa. Samina Pure Makeup. The Mobile Phone House. Hajee Spices Restaurant (Birmingham Stratford Rd). Source Omega.

Charities:
Main cause - National Zakat Foundation. Also if you can please donate to this orphanage charity - Jannat ul fardous - www.juftrust.com Kawish Welfare Trust - www.kawish-welfare-trust.org - educational and medical charity for poor and needy families

Save Stechford Mosque, they need to pay 150,000 in 28 days Masjid acct no: 0633285, sort code: 30-97-76 Registered charity: 1102307 Please contact brother Yasin Chishty on 07968794080 if you need further information.

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Many thanks to team. They have donated funds to place an ad with us. This donation will be shared amongst the charities we are supporting this month. http://www.cre8ivminds.co.uk

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Small toys.

Big benets.

If the only thing you have is your name, wouldnt you want to know how to write it?

We are a small company that designs and makes ethical educational Islamic products aimed at Muslim children. Our product ranges includes games, books and posters, and we are continually making new and exciting lines. All our products have a twofold aim. Firstly, our ranges have been designed to aid early learning and development in a stimulating and entertaining way. Secondly, our products are an ideal introduction to Islam. Our intention is to incorporate Islamic ethics and education, in a way that enhances the childs desire to learn. We have a strong ethical policy, were not perfect but we strive to do our best inshaAllah and always look for new ways to improve. All our products are made from recycled materials. www.facebook.com/SmartArkIslamicToys http://twitter.com/SmartArkToys

We have also founded the Smart Ark Education Aid a registered charity which helps disadvantaged children gain access to education. Smart Ark Educational Aid is run entirely on a voluntary basis by members who have various experiences in the eld of child education. 100% of donations goes towards funding educational projects to children around the world. www.smartarkeducationaid.org/index.htm Follow them on Twitter and Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/SmartArkIslamicToys http://twitter.com/SmartArkToys

http://www.smartarkeducationaid.org/index.htm

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Halal from Head

Sahfee Halal care means that all our products are free of alcohol, animal products and genetically manipulated ingredients. All our products are composed with great care and consist solely of Halal raw materials. These are all approved ofcially by Halal Quality Control (HQC).

Halal personal care is not only suitable for Muslims, but also for vegans and for everyone who values ethically sourced products. With Sahfee Halal care you are assured of clean, premium quality products for your daily care ritual.

to Toe.

Our range consists of: shampoo for women, shower gel for women, shampoo for men, shower gel for men, shampoo for covered hair, conditioner for covered hair (for the woman who wears a headscarf).

Special Ramadan and Eid offer. Go to www.sahfee-halalcare.com and receive 10 % off our products. Enter this code: RS25 at checkout.

http://www.sahfee-halalcare.com 10% of any sale will go to behalal and its charity.

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Talk is Cheap
with The Mobile Phone House.

Weve been providing communication solutions to both the public and private sector for over 14 years. Were the communication experts, so you dont need to be. Our goal is to provide you with the very best customer service experience possible; whilst slashing your mobile costs and eliminating all of your existing administrative hassle.

We are also B2B specialists. Our goal is to provide you with the very best customer service experience possible. We have access to Exclusive Deals - deals that 99% of other providers cant give. Talk to us for great contract deals with the following networks: Orange, O2, Vodafone, Three and T-Mobile

www.tmphuk.com

http://www.tmphuk.com

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20% off your next purchase.

Enter this code BH20 at checkout for your Ramadan and Eid discount.

Youll look good and now youll feel good with our makeup.
PURE MAKEUP

Heres why:
Samina Pure Makeup range was created out of a passion for giving women a real alternative without compromising on quality or results. Our products are formulated using healthy mineral foundations and powders that are naturally free from animal products, harsh chemicals, alcohol, petroleum derived ingredients or fillers. There is a big list of other skin toxic ingredients that we dont use but others do, and they can be found on our website. And whats more, our products have never been tested on any animal - EVER What we have created is a natural makeup system, which we feel is actually healthy for your skin and gives you an effortless glow. Our radiance boosting formula is just right for all skin types and all ages. Here are some of the key benefits:
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and imperfections Ultra gentle; suitable for acne prone and sensitive skin Non-Comedogenic, it will not block pores & lets skin breath Feels light and weightless on your skin Adjustable - Achieve light to full coverage High Zinc oxide content naturally occurring sunscreen, skin healing & anti bacterial properties.

Please pass on the word about Samina Pure Makeup, the bigger our voice, the bigger chance we have to help put an end to animal testing for makeup.

saminapuremakeup.co.uk Europes 1st Halal approved Makeup Products

saminapuremakeup.co.uk Europes 1st Halal approved Makeup Products

http://www.saminapuremakeup.co.uk

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http://www.alhikma-tours.co.uk

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away e al giv l ree ha F

One of our advertising sponsors, is giving away one bottle of Pure one Omega 3 (retail price $39.95) supplement which is plant based with no risk of heavy metals and ethanol which can bind to sh based omega 3 supplements, so perfect for Halal consumption. It lowers triglycerides, helps heart health and for the health of the infant during pregnancy. It will be posted where ever you are in the big wide world. Just email us and well pull a name out of hat to nd the winner. Check out the website: http://www.source-omega.com/lower-triglycerides.htm Or when you buy 5 you get one free! Dont forget to mention behalal.org

http://www.source-omega.com/lower-triglycerides.htm

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The modern look. The beautiful look. The Halal look.

FX mineral Cosmetics.
At FX cosmetics we pride ourselves in bringing to you a Halal and ethical brand, as a brand our products are sourced from countries that match our high ethical standards. Our product range is not tested on animals and has undergone stringent testing to comply with Halal standards. FX Cosmetics use mineral based products which are free from harsh chemical. Our cosmetics are carefully constructed using the nest and most natural ingredients to give you that catwalk look without damaging your skin. We have a range of colours and products designed to suit women of all races and all skin tones. At FX there is something for everyone. The range is designed for women from all walks of life, ages and races. Beauty is about celebrating your own skin tone and complimenting your skins own contours and shades, this is an exclusive range which will inspire, initiate and innovate your natural beauty. The uniqueness of FX cosmetic is, we offer consumers the opportunity to host their very own FX party, which is guaranteed to be fun, bursting with energy and above all, a full range of divine products to purchase from the comfort of your own home. We guarantee the founders of FX Cosmetics will attend each home party ensuring all their consumers are given the FX VIP treatment at no additional costs. About our products Our Exciting range of MINERAL Cosmetics will not only make you look good but is guaranteed to be good for your skin too! Our Product range is free from ANIMAL TESTING, ECOFRIENDLY and uses NATURAL MINERAL INGREDIENTS. Some of the Key Benets of the range include makeup which is LONG LASTING, VITAMIN ENRICHED, Suitable for ALL SKIN TYPES & above all LIGHT WEIGHT & VELVETY to touch.

Want 15% off FX cosmetics?

Enter 15disc when you checkout for your discount. www.fxcosmetics.co.uk

www.fxcosmetics.co.uk

FX the new generation in Halal & Mineral Cosmetics

At FX we guarantee we will actively work to bring you new and exciting mineral and Halal products.

FX are giving 10% of any sale to behalal.org. This will be used to keep us going and help the charities we support.

http://www.fxcosmetics.co.uk

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The truth will shock you.

This is a QR code. In it lies a story of how muslim mothers, sisters and daughters are going hungry, are being cruelly victimised, are left crying and begging in the streets and chasing forgotten dreams. They have been disowned by the people who are supposed to love them and protect them. Theres no resbite, no time to take a breather, watch the television, relax. It is a daily dirty battle to survive. Where is this happening? War torn Africa? The slums of Asia? No, right here in the UK.
We need your help to build and run a womens Emergency Shelter Program. This is designed specically and wholly to meet the needs of homeless sisters, both with and without children. It will have provisions to assist with basic needs such as meals, clothing, beds, showers and hygiene supplies and also referrals to other agencies. To help or nd out more about National Zakat Foundation, please visit www.letusbelieve.com To view the QR code download these apps onto your smart phone and click on the link. behalal.org will be donating to this charity.
To try this, use the app called : To try this, use the app called :

SCAN

QR DROID

nationalzakat
F O U N D AT I O N

http://www.letusbelieve.com

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Saaf. A Halal skin-nurturing philosophy

This is behind all products in the Saaf Pure Skincare range. Completely natural and organic, Saaf products contain only the nest quality ingredients scientically researched worldwide, to conrm that they are amongst the most potent natural anti-oxidants and anti-agers. Deeply protective, Saaf Skincare provides an immediate beauty-boost, but is also a safe-guard for the skin, formulated to counteract the damaging effects of the environment on your skins health and well-being.

Face & Lip Balm now only 7.50

50% off
Exclusive offer to behalal.org
As a Ramadan and Eid gift to behalal. Saaf have reduced the prices of some their worldrenowned beauty products by 50% to behalal.org readers. And furthermore, 50% of the sales for each product purchased will be donated to behalal.org to keep us going. This is a fantastic offer and the generosity extended to behalal.org is amazing. Please, please, read about Saaf products and put them on your Eid shopping list.

Anti-irritant Black Seed Oil and other skin-nurturing ingredients help reduce the appearance of scars, blemishes, restoring moisture to dry, mature skin. Also contains Rosehip Seed Oil, helps to boost collagen and create the appearance of smoother, rmer, younger-looking skin. A fabulous daily boost for tired, dehydrated skin. Certied Organic & Vegetarian.

Ultimate Moisture Face Serum now only 19.99

Day & Night, Ultra-rich nourishment for normal/dry Skin. Ultra-rich serum for dry skin, prematurely ageing, sun damaged skin, and rosacea. A beauty boosting blend with a high percentage of effective cold pressed Rosehip Seed and Pomegranate Seed. Repeated use helps restore skin suppleness, diminish pigmentation and even out skin tone. A superb night or daytime skin rejuvenation treatment. Certied Organic, Vegetarian & Vegan.

Complexion Boosting Serum now only 19.99

Day & Night, Helps improve skin-tone & texture for normal/oily skin Purifying, sebum-regulating botanicals help balance oily skin, improve skin tone and texture. Used regularly, these purifying, clarifying, ingredients actively discourage blemishes, and have a beautiful bonus: anti inammatory Black Seed Oil, and Rosehip Seed Oil help resist the ageing process. Skin will feel hydrated, look clearer, brighter. Glowing. Certied Organic, Vegetarian & Vegan.

Foot Softening Balm now only 9.99

Ultimate Hydration Treat for Feet. Helps soothe and revitalise rough, dry, chapped feet. Softens and beauties them overnight. Deeply penetrating balm enriched with Cocoa Butter, Beeswax, Olive Oil for super-softness. Black Seed Oil, to soothe tired, aching feet. Neem, Rosemary and Lemon Myrtle for a powerful anti-fungal / anti-odour effect. A foot-food that softens and beauties overnight. Bliss. Certied Organic, Vegetarian & Vegan.

Exclusive to behalal.org These offers are a one off. Once the stock is gone its gone. To buy email info@behalal.org and tell us which product you want.

http://info@behalal.org

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0 to 3,000,000 in under two years.

We took a small Halal high street butcher and made them the most successful fresh meat concession in one of the largest supermarket chains in the UK. Oh, the 3,000,000, that should be pounds. Branding, Marketing & Strategy made simple and made protable. Contact: wasi@mumtaz.me.uk
http://www.mumtaz.me.uk

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What are you cooking for Eid?

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Eid Mubarak.
We hope Ramadan has changed the way you view your life, in what you do, what you eat and what you can achieve. Your journey has been the destination and we hope it brings you closer to Allah.

Simple Goan Chicken Curry

This mild dish is spicy rather than hot and relatively low-fat. Marinate the chicken slowly for more avour.
Ingredients:
4 large skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks 3 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp yellow or brown mustard seeds 1 large onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, nely sliced 1x400ml can coconut milk Salt Big green chilli for garnish (optional)

Healthier Eid main meal ideas.

Just few ideas of what you can cook to mark the end of Ramadan and what meals you can prepare for Eid-Ul-Fitr. Weve tried to make them healthy for you and they are delicious.

Preparation method
Mix together all the marinade ingredients to give you a loose, smooth paste. Add the chicken pieces and coat them in the paste. They are best left to marinate for around 30 minutes to 1 hour, but if youre in a hurry a few minutes will do. Heat the oil (See our healthy alternative oils) in a deep frying pan and add the mustard seeds. When they start to pop and jump about in the pan, add the onion and garlic. Cook until theyre golden brown before adding the chicken and any extra paste from the marinade. Fry over a gentle heat for about 8 minutes before adding the coconut milk. Increase the heat slightly and bring to a simmer. Cook for a further 10-12 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly before seasoning with a small amount of salt if necessary and serve with rice or naan bread.

For the marinade:

1 tsp paprika
1

/2 tsp ground turmeric

11/2 tbsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp cayenne pepper 1 tbsp lemon juice
1

/2 tsp salt

75ml/23/4 oz water

Tender lamb tagine packed with shallots and dates

Ingredients:
1.5kg/31/4lb leg of lamb, cubed 2 tsp ground coriander seeds 2 tsp ground ginger pinch saffron 2 tbsp olive oill 18 shallots whole, peeled 4 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tbsp plain our 1 tbsp tomato pure 1 cinnamon stick 600ml/1 pint lamb stock 2 tbsp atleaf parsley, chopped 2 tbsp coriander, chopped 1 preserved lemon, rinsed, inner pulp removed 110g/4oz medjool dates, pits removed 1 tbsp clear honey

Preparation method
Place the lamb in a bowl and add the ground coriander, ground ginger, saffron and one tablespoon of the olive oil. Mix well and leave to marinate in the fridge, covered, for 24 hours. The next day, heat the remaining olive oil in a heavy-based pan with a lid. Cook the lamb until browned all over (you may need to do this in batches). Remove the lamb from the pan and set aside. Fry the shallots in the same pan until lightly golden then add the garlic and return the lamb to the pan. Stir in the plain our and add the tomato pure and cinnamon stick. Stir in the lamb stock and bring to the boil. Cover tightly and simmer gently for 11/2 hours, or until the lamb is tender. Add the parsley, coriander, lemon rind, dates and honey, stir well to combine and serve with a bowl of cous cous or rice if youre a true desi, innit?

Spinach, aubergine and chickpea curry (Vegetarian)

Ingredients:
1kg/2 lb fresh spinach 4 tbsp olive oil 2 medium red onions, chopped 200g/7oz tinned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 garlic cloves, nely chopped 2 fresh hot green chillies, halved and thinly sliced, seeds included 1 tbsp coriander seeds, ground 1 tbsp cumin seeds 1 large aubergine, approx. 400g/14oz,cut into 2cm (3/4in) dice 400g/14oz tinned chopped tomatoes Salt

Preparation method
Cook the spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool it under cold running water and squeeze gently to remove most of the liquid. Place in a food processor and chop the spinach to a coarse pure. Heat half the olive oil in a large pan and cook the onion, chickpeas, garlic, chilli and spices for ve minutes over a medium heat. Add the remaining olive oil and the aubergine. Cook for ten minutes, stirring often, until the aubergine is coloured. Add the tomatoes and a pinch of salt, then cover the pan, lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the aubergine is soft. Stir in the spinach pure and serve.

Helped us and joined us.

Here is a list of people who have supported behalal for our Ramadan and Eid guide, and of course all the charities that we support. Our supporters have donated to these charities in exchange for an ad in our guide. Please visit their websites as they will be needed for next years guide. assalam alaikum wa rahmat Allah wa barakatuhu

behalal.org

Sponsors:
Saaf. FX Cosmetics. Saa. Samina Pure Makeup. The Mobile Phone House. Hajee Spices Restaurant (Birmingham Stratford Rd). Source Omega.

Charities:
Main cause - National Zakat Foundation. Also if you can please donate to this orphanage charity - Jannat ul fardous www.juftrust.com Kawish Welfare Trust - www.kawish-welfare-trust.org - educational and medical charity for poor and needy families

Save Stechford Mosque, they need to pay 150,000 in 28 days Masjid acct no: 0633285, sort code: 30-97-76 Registered charity: 1102307 Please contact brother Yasin Chishty on 07968794080 if you need further information.

help us

join us