Ramadan challenges former bulimia sufferer’s recovery



DUBAI // “Amira” is in recovery after suffering from bulimia which began as a young teen.

“It’s hard to fight off the urge to not eat sometimes and to lose weight and also to fight the urge to purge,” she said.

“Four years ago when I had the disorder in Ramadan I felt more comfortable with my body because I was losing weight. It was a really stressful situation though as my parents would pressure me not to fast because they knew about my disorder. At iftar times, I wouldn’t really eat much and if I did, I would throw it up afterwards.”

Amira’s decision to fast was personal and religious.

“I still fast during Ramadan but not to lose weight,” she said. “I think I’m strong enough to overcome my disorder and take part in Ramadan for my spirituality. It’s a personal choice. I like what Ramadan stands for.”

Seeking help was the key to her recovery, which is an ongoing process. She visits a psychologist on a regular basis.

“The biggest help was from my parents, they were always very supportive,” she said.

“They told me not to fast if it was difficult. I ended up seeing a therapist and joining a support group for other people with eating disorders and that really helped.

“If I feel like fasting is difficult for me now, I talk to my parents about it. It really helps to know that I can just tell them and they’ll understand. At first I didn’t want to get anyone else’s help but I think that acknowledging the available support is even more vital to help anyone suffering from an eating disorder during Ramadan.”

mswan@thenational.ae

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The National Archives, Abu Dhabi

Founded over 50 years ago, the National Archives collects valuable historical material relating to the UAE, and is the oldest and richest archive relating to the Arabian Gulf.

Much of the material can be viewed on line at the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive - https://www.agda.ae/en

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Education: Bachelors degree in English Literature with Social work from UAE University

As a child: Kept sweets on the window sill for workers, set aside money to pay for education of needy families

Holidays: Spends most of her days off at Senses often with her family who describe the centre as part of their life too

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Sudden change in behaviour or displays higher levels of stress or anxiety

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Iqbal Restaurant behind Wendy’s on Hamdan Street for the chicken karahi (Dh14)

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Abu Al Nasar near Abu Dhabi Mall, for biryani (from Dh12 to Dh20)

Bonna Annee at Navy Gate for Ethiopian food (the Bonna Annee special costs Dh42 and comes with a mix of six house stews – key wet, minchet abesh, kekel, meser be sega, tibs fir fir and shiro).

Al Habasha in Tanker Mai for Ethiopian food (tibs, a hearty stew with meat, is a popular dish; here it costs Dh36.75 for lamb and beef versions)

Himalayan Restaurant in Mussaffa for Nepalese (the momos and chowmein noodles are best-selling items, and go for between Dh14 and Dh20)

Makalu in Mussaffa for Nepalese (get the chicken curry or chicken fry for Dh11)

Al Shaheen Cafeteria near Guardian Towers for a quick morning bite, especially the egg sandwich in paratha (Dh3.50)

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Tasty Zone for Nepalese-style noodles (Dh15)

Ibrahimi for Pakistani food (a quarter chicken tikka with roti costs Dh16)

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