7 Sunnah Foods You Should Add to Your Diet

Islam is not thought of as just a religion; it’s a complete way of life. Everything Muslims do, including the way we eat and drink, should align with the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Quran. This means taking guidance and incorporating these choices within our lives. This extends to choosing halal foods and also embracing the guidance given to us on health and wellbeing.

Did you know that the Prophet (PBUH) recommended specific foods and drinks that are not only halal but also packed with incredible health benefits? From superfoods like dates and honey to refreshing milk, these Sunnah-inspired choices nourish both our bodies and souls.

In this article, we’ll explore seven Sunnah foods that are easy to add to your daily diet. Let’s discuss in detail their nutritional benefits and why the Holy Prophet (PBUH) recommended them. 

7 Sunnah Food to Include in Your Daily Diet 

Here are seven Sunnah foods to include in your daily diet and their benefits as well:

1. Dates 

This should not come as a surprise. Dates are usually eaten during Ramadan to break the fast, but more importantly, they are the favourite food of our Holy Prophet (PBUH). In fact, he used to plant date trees himself and encouraged his followers to eat them regularly. He said:

“He who eats seven 'Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5445)

This hadith highlights the healing and protective properties of dates, making them a truly miraculous Sunnah food.

Various studies have demonstrated that dates have many benefits. They are low in fat and cholesterol-free while also being rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They are a rich source of natural sugars, providing a quick energy source. They also contain beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances. Furthermore, dates have been reported to be beneficial for digestive systems and help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

2. Honey 

Honey holds a special place in Islamic teachings as a Sunnah food. It is mentioned in the Quran as well as in Sunnah as a natural remedy for a wide range of diseases and health problems. 

The Quran says:

“From their bellies (bee) comes forth liquid (honey) of varying colours, in which there is healing for people. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect.”

(Surah Al-Nahl, 16:69)

This verse highlights honey's incredible health benefits and is one of many blessings of Allah (SWT) for mankind. The Prophet (PBUH) said the same thing about honey:

“Healing is in three things: a gulp of honey, cupping, and branding with fire (cauterisation)”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5680)

According to medical studies, honey is an effective natural healer due to the antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties it possesses.

It soothes sore throats, aids digestion, boosts the immune system, and even promotes wound healing. In addition, honey contains a high level of natural sugars, which provides a quick energy boost and contributes to overall health and well-being.

3. Barley (Grain)

Although barley is a simple grain, it may come as a surprise that it is highly recommended by the Holy Prophet (PBUH) for a balanced and healthy diet. It is noted for its high fibre content, which aids in regulating bowel movements and improving gut health in general. It also provides healthy nutritional value since it contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent addition to any diet.

According to a hadith narrated by Habab ibn Mundhir, the Prophet (PBUH) advised a recovering Ali (AS) to consume barley-based dishes over unripe dates.

"O ʿAli, eat some of this (barley), for it is better for you."

(Sunan Ibn Majah, 3442)

This Hadith highlights the Prophet's (PBUH) awareness of the nutritional benefits of barley, especially for someone in recovery from illness. 

Further, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) also recommended eating talbina, a porridge made from barley flour, as a nourishing food. It’s excellent for digestion, heart health, and boosting immunity. He said:

"Talbina soothes the heart of the sick and relieves some of their sorrow."

(Sahih Bukhari, 5689)

So by adding a barley-based diet into your daily routine you not only honour the Sunnah of our Holy Prophet (PBUH) but also provide your body with a healthy and nourishing meal. 

Are you having difficulty finding talbina in your local market? Well, there's no need to worry. Check out the Riwaya Halal Food Section and buy yourself a healthy pack of talbina packed with nutrients.  

4. Milk 

Milk is a very common household item found in almost everyone’s refrigerator. Did you know that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) was very fond of milk, and both the Quran and Sunnah highlight its nutritional benefits? In one of the sayings, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:

"There is nothing that suffices as both food and drink except milk."

(Sunan Ibn Majah, 3328)

This shows the Prophet's (PBUH) appreciation for milk as a wholesome and complete source of nourishment.

Further in the Quran, Allah (SWT) states:

"And indeed, for you in grazing livestock is a lesson. We give you drink from what is in their bellies—between excretion and blood—pure milk, palatable to drinkers."

(Surah An-Nahl, 16:66)

This verse not only highlights milk’s nutritional benefits but also shows that it is one of the many gifts Allah (SWT) has given mankind. There is no doubt that milk is an excellent source of nutrients such as calcium, protein, potassium, and many others. Providing high levels of nutrition helps maintain healthy bones and teeth, repair muscles, and support red blood cell production.

By including milk in your daily routine, you not only nourish your body but also honour the Sunnah and blessings of Allah (SWT).

5. Figs 

The fig is another important food mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH). Allah (SWT) highlights its importance in the Quran by taking an oath on it.

"By the fig and the olive, and [by] Mount Sinai, and [by] this secure city [Makkah]”

(Surah At-Tin 95:1-3)

Further, the Prophet (PBUH) was very fond of figs and included them in his diet. He even referred to them as the food of paradise (Jannah).

"If I were to say that any fruit was created in Paradise, I would say it is the fig, for it is a fruit without seeds. Eat of it, for it cures piles and is useful for rheumatism.

(Abu Darda)

The fig is not only one of the most delicious and nutritious fruits but also one of the healthiest. Its low-calorie composition and high fibre, vitamin, and mineral content make it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that fig leaf extract and tree latex inhibit the growth of tumours and cancer cells, demonstrating their potential as anti-cancer substances.

You can eat them raw as a snack or add them to your cooking; either way, they offer the same nutritional value. 

6. Olives 

Olives have been mentioned in both the Quran and Sunnah repeatedly. It is not only a versatile food with nutritional benefits but can also be used for skin care purposes. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:

"Eat olive oil and apply it to yourselves with it, for it is from a blessed tree."

(Tirmidhi, 1851)

In the Quran, olives have been mentioned more than once. Allah (SWT) refers to the olive tree as the “Blessed Tree,” highlighting its divine significance (Surah An-Nur, 24:35). Allah (SWT) also highlights its benefits and nutritional value.

“And [We brought forth] a tree issuing from Mount Sinai which produces oil and food for those who eat."

(Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:20)

Besides the reference to its spiritual significance, olives and olive oil have several health benefits. They provide a variety of healthy nutrients, including antioxidants, monounsaturated fats, and anti-inflammatory compounds, which contribute to a balanced diet. In particular, olive oil is well known for its positive effects on cardiovascular health and digestion and even delay the onset of ageing.

Olive and olive oils are versatile foods. Whether you drizzle them on salads or consume them as snacks, you can enjoy their benefits and boost your overall health.

7. Black Seed (Cumin)

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) referred to black seed as a cure for all diseases except death.

"Use the black seed, for indeed, it is a cure for every disease except death."

(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5688)

This hadith shows that black seeds and black seed oil have many medicinal properties for treating various diseases. As a natural remedy, they strengthen the immune system, treat respiratory conditions, and promote good health in general, which helps prevent numerous diseases. 

From a scientific point of view, black seed has been found to be rich in antioxidants, including thymoquinone, which helps reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Black seed is also a good source of essential fatty acids, supporting heart health, brain function, and skin nourishment. Known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, black seed aids in fighting infections and strengthening the body’s natural defences.

You can eat black seed by adding it to your cooking or as a supplement to get its nutritional benefits. Further, you can apply black seed oil to your skin to treat various skin problems, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Visit the Riwaya Halal Food section and buy raw and pure black seed and black seed oil from our authorised sellers for yourself or as a gift for someone. 

Conclusion 

The Sunnah and teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) offer us complete guidance about every aspect of our lives. Everything he has taught us is for our own benefit and well-being, and there is no harm in it. We can see this in the numerous health benefits these Sunnah foods offer, which he recommended for the Ummah (Muslim community).

As we incorporate these seven Sunnah foods into our daily diets, we will nourish our bodies with wholesome, nutritious ingredients and strengthen our connection with the Prophet (PBUH) and Allah (SWT). Following the Sunnah and teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) benefits not only this life but also the afterlife.

Whoever revives one of my Sunnahs and the people act upon it, he will have the reward of those who act upon it, without it detracting from their reward in the slightest."

(Sunan Ibn Majah, 209)

Selling on Riwaya 

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