The Quran not only addresses topics such as prophetic history, law, and morality but also guides us on daily aspects of life, including food and drink. Many halal foods are mentioned in the Quran, many of which you might see on the tables of Muslims.
In this blog, we will discuss eight of the foods that are mentioned in the Quran. As Muslims, we should live healthy and productive lives. Therefore, we will also share the incredible health benefits of these halal foods to inspire you to include them in your daily diet.
But before we explore these halal foods, let’s understand what the halal food is:
What is Halal Food?
If you translate the Arabic word ‘Halal’ into English, it means permissible. Halal food is what we are allowed to eat according to Islamic law. The Quran teaches us to eat only halal (allowed) food and to avoid haram (forbidden) food.
‘They ask you, O Prophet, what is permissible for them (to eat). Say, What is good and lawful.’
(Surah Al-Ma’ida, verse 4)
Islamic teachings also remind us to eat in moderation and not to overeat. If you want to know the Prophetic manners of eating, remember to check our previous blog on the Sunnahs of eating.
Eight Halal Foods in the Quran and Their Health Benefits
Here are the halal foods mentioned in the Quran along with their health benefits:
1. Honey
Honey is a great sugar alternative and can also be used topically as a natural remedy for skin care. Interestingly, you will find it in one of the descriptions of Jannah (Paradise). It is also mentioned multiple times in the Quran as a healthy food in which there is a cure for people. It is stated,
‘…From their bellies comes forth liquid of varying colours, in which there is healing for people. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect.’
(Surah An-Nahl, verse 69)
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Health Benefits of Honey
1. Honey is a source of energy with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
2. It can help you lose weight.
3. It is rich in antioxidants that can decrease the ageing process.
4. It also helps prevent heart disease and reduce the risk of cancer.
If you want to know more about the benefits of using honey, be sure to check our previous blog.
2. Dates
Dates are very sweet and they can be used as sugar alternatives. There are different types of dates like Ajwa, Medjool, Sukkari, and Safawi. They are especially popular during Ramadan for breaking the fast. However, eating seven dates every morning is the Sunnah, which is why you should include them in your daily diet. Our beloved Prophet (PBUH) 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)
You must be aware of the story of the birth of Prophet Isa (AS). The Quran beautifully narrates how Maryam (AS), in her time of labour and immense pain, was comforted by Allah’s command. Allah instructed her to shake the trunk of a date palm so that ripe dates would fall for her to eat,
‘And shake the trunk of this palm tree towards you, it will drop fresh, ripe dates upon you.’
(Surah Maryam, verse 25)
Health Benefits of Dates
1. Dates contain iron, manganese, calcium, potassium, and vitamin B6. These essential nutrients are beneficial for health conditions.
2. They’re fat-free and cholesterol-free as they only have twenty-five to thirty calories per date.
3. They are very rich in fibre and great for overall gut health.
4. They are loaded with antioxidants such as phenolic acid, carotenoids, and flavonoids. They help prevent chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disorder etc.
So, the next time you are having your morning coffee or tea, be sure to eat delicious dates to boost your health.
3. Grapes
Grapes are sweet fruits enjoyed by everyone in the world. People eat it in the fresh state, in the form of raisins (sun-dried grapes), or consume it in the form of juice. Allah has mentioned them twice in Surah An-Nahl (verses 11 and 67).
‘With it He produces for you ˹various˺ crops, olives, palm trees, grapevines, and every type of fruit. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect.’
(Surah An-Nahl, verse 11)
Health Benefits of Grapes
1. Grapes are very rich in nutrients including thiamine, vitamins C, K, and B6. They can help improve your immune system.
2. Having a hard time getting a good night’s sleep? Grapes can help you sleep well. They have melatonin in them that can improve your sleep cycle.
3. They are full of antioxidants that can fight off free radicals (molecules that can damage your cells and may lead to cancer). Ultimately, they can protect you against cancer and heart attack.
4. They are high in potassium, meaning they can decrease the chances of high blood pressure.
So, when you are craving something sour and sweet, go to your kitchen, open the refrigerator, fetch a bunch of grapes and enjoy your health-packed sweet delights.
4. Figs and Olives
Figs are sweet and they are eaten as fruit. Whereas, olives and their oil are often used in salads and cooking food to enhance the flavours. Fig and olives hold a special place in Islam. Did you know Allah swears by these two in the Quran? There is even a Surah named after figs (Surah At-Tin).
‘By the fig and the olive…’
(Surah At-Tin, verse 1)
Health Benefits of Figs and Olives
1. Both figs and olives contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce the effect of cytokines, which can damage the cells in the brain, lungs, kidneys, and other tissues.
2. Figs are high in soluble fibres, they can improve digestion and they’re also ideal snacks for weight loss.
3. Dried figs contain polyphenols, which are good for brain health. It not only helps with physical health but is also beneficial for the skin as it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
4. Olives are loaded with vitamin E and other antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
5. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a sweet and very nutritious fruit. For Muslims, it is a fruit from paradise as mentioned in verse 68 of Surah Ar-Rahman. Another verse in the Quran also references pomegranate,
‘He is the One Who produces gardens—both cultivated and wild—and palm trees, crops of different flavours, olives, and pomegranates—similar (in shape), but dissimilar (in taste)...’
(Surah Al-An’am, verse 141)
People not only consume it plainly or in the form of juice but also eat it in salads or desserts. Here are some amazing health benefits of pomegranate:
Health Benefits of Pomegranate
1. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the heart, kidneys, and gut microbiome.
2. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it can fight oral germs that cause gum disease and bad breath.
3. In fact, the research suggests that pomegranates may promote urinary health.
4. Some studies claim that it can also improve wound healing and the reproductive system.
Taking into account its incredible benefits, you should add it to your diet by sprinkling it onto your salads, oatmeals, or other dishes.
6. Vegetables
Vegetables are super versatile and play a big role in a healthy, balanced diet. They’re packed with many nutrients, making them a great choice for staying healthy. The Holy Quran mentions different vegetables, such as herbs, garlic, onion, cucumber, lentils, corn, and ginger. So it means they are definitely good for us.
In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah reminded the children of Israel of how they asked for food in exchange for Manna and Quail,
‘…call upon your Lord on our behalf, He will bring forth for us some of what the earth produces of herbs, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions.’
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 61)
In Surah Al-Insan, Allah tells us about the people of Paradise and the eternal delights they will experience. One of the verses states,
‘And they will be given a drink (of pure wine) flavoured with ginger.’
(Surah Al-Insan, verse 17)
Health Benefits of Vegetables
1. One of the biggest benefits of vegetables is their high fibre content. It helps your stomach and intestines function well.
2. Cucumbers, being rich in water, help keep your body hydrated and support good kidney health. Ginger, on the other hand, boosts detoxification by promoting sweating.
3. Corn is very rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins C and B, antioxidants and potassium. It also contains copper which can help prevent cancer and heart disease.
4. Eating vegetables also boosts your immune system. It means your body can fight off different illnesses and infections easily.
Would you like to try this secret vegetable juice to get glowing and dewy skin? Try drinking cucumber, ginger, and lemon juice, your body and skin will thank you! For more related recipes for healthy skin, check this out.
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7. Meat and Seafood
Meat is considered halal when it comes from permissible animals that are properly slaughtered in the name of Allah. It includes meat from animals like sheep, goats, cows, chickens, and even camels. The Quran highlights the importance of halal meat in Surah Al-Ma’ida,
‘O believers! Honour your obligations. All grazing livestock has been made lawful to you—except what is hereby announced to you and hunting while on pilgrimage. Indeed, Allah commands what He wills.’
(Surah Al-Ma’ida, verse 1)
Another halal food that is referenced in the Holy Quran is seafood. The Quran permits seafood in Surah Al-Ma’idah, declaring food from the sea lawful,
‘It is lawful for you to hunt and eat seafood, as a provision for you and for travellers. But hunting on land is forbidden to you while on pilgrimage. Be mindful of Allah to Whom you all will be gathered.’
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, verse 96)
Health Benefits of Meat and Seafood
Both meat and seafood can provide many health benefits, including:
1. They are great sources of protein, which helps build and repair tissues.
2. Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain function and heart health. Eating fish once or twice a week can help lower the risks of heart attack and strokes.
3. Iron, which is found in meat, dairy, and fish, helps metabolise proteins and fats, which aids muscle repair and growth.
4. Seafood is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iodine. Meat is a good source of zinc, copper, and vitamin B6, which support a healthy immune system.
8. Milk
In the Quran, milk is categorised as a pure thing. It is a drink which comes from the midst of digested food and blood. Despite this, it is pure and beneficial. It is mentioned in the Quran,
‘And there is certainly a lesson for you in cattle: We give you to drink of what is in their bellies, from between digested food and blood: pure milk, pleasant to drink.’
(Surah An-Nahl, verse 66)
Milk is mostly included in breakfasts and meals. Additionally, it is widely used in a variety of desserts and beverages.
Let’s talk about its amazing benefits for your health:
Health Benefits of Milk
1. Milk is a vital source of calcium and protein, which helps strengthen bones and teeth.
2. It contains zinc, selenium, and vitamins A and D, which can help support the immune system.
3. A glass of warm milk can help relax tense muscles and soothe frayed nerves.
4. It contains potassium, which can help maintain healthy blood pressure.
Milk is a key part of a balanced diet, and nutritionists recommend that people have milk and other dairy products every day.
Conclusion
Did you notice? While reading about the health benefits of these eight halal foods mentioned in the Quran, you may observe one striking similarity. The fact that all of these foods are very beneficial for our heart. And no doubt, the heart has been mentioned many times in the Quran and many Hadiths. One of the Hadith states,
'There lies within the body a piece of flesh. If it is sound, the whole body is sound; and if it is corrupted the whole body is corrupted. Verily this piece is the heart.'
(Sahih Al-Bukhari, 52)
This Hadith emphasises the importance of the heart and the need to protect it. Therefore, our diet should also include food that is beneficial for our heart. InshaAllah, incorporating these foods into your daily diet will boost your overall health and keep you feeling refreshed.
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