‘The Quranic Garden’: Consumption of Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains from an Islamic Perspective

Abstract

The increasing global prevalence of obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities has prompted calls for culturally-congruent dietary patterns and health-promoting strategies and interventions appropriate for specific populations and communities. The Holy Quran is viewed as the primary behavioral and religious guidance for all Muslims around the world. Diets rich in plant-based foods and its protective role in the reduction and prevention of obesity-related diseases have been established. The purpose of this study is to examine passages cited in the Holy Quran with particular reference given to plant foods cited and features of a plant-based diet. A narrative review of the Holy Quran in two formats was conducted to identify plant-based foods. A total of 36 passages were identified in this review with a considerable focus on the consumption of dates, olives, grapes, whole grains, pomegranates, and other plant-based foods. This review supports the Holy Quran as an authoritative culturally-relevant faith-based resource for dietitians, public health educators, and other health professionals operating in Muslim populations and communities around the world to promote dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Barriers and Facilitators of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption among Nigerian Adults in a Faith-Based Setting: A Pre-Intervention Qualitative Inquiry

“…Others have pointed out the positive association between spirituality and fruit and vegetable consumption, such as the church providing FV during the fasting season (Tan et al, 2013). Some studies have demonstrated that some holy books such as the Bible and the Quran promote FV intake, similar to our findings (Aboul-Enein, 2017;Khazan, 2013). The teaching that God sees the human body as sacred and not to be treated irreverently may consciously encourage the members to make healthy food choices.…”