Ajman

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Nutrition

Sections

1. Healthy Food Options in Ajman

Ajman provides a mix of traditional Emirati cuisine, international dishes, and modern health-focused options. Here’s how you can maintain a healthy diet in the city:

Traditional Emirati Cuisine

  • Healthy Dishes to Try:
    • Harees: A dish made from wheat and meat, often considered nutritious due to its simple ingredients.
    • Balaleet: A sweet and savory dish made with vermicelli, eggs, and spices.
    • Grilled Fish: Freshly caught fish, often grilled with minimal oil and spices.
  • Tips: Emirati cuisine often uses fresh ingredients, but some dishes can be high in fat or sugar. Opt for grilled or baked options and avoid fried foods.

International and Modern Healthy Options

  • Ajman has a growing number of restaurants and cafes offering vegan, vegetarian, and low-calorie meals. Look for dishes with whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables.

2. Local Markets for Fresh Produce

Ajman has several markets where you can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy ingredients at reasonable prices.

Ajman Fish Market

  • What to Buy: Fresh seafood, a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Tips: Visit early in the morning for the freshest catch. Negotiate prices if buying in bulk.

Ajman Fruits and Vegetables Market

  • What to Buy: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Tips: Locally grown produce is often cheaper and fresher. Look for organic options when available.

Supermarkets with Healthy Sections

  • Lulu Hypermarket: Offers a wide range of fresh produce, organic products, and health foods.
  • Carrefour: Stocks international health food brands, gluten-free products, and organic items.
  • Nesto Hypermarket: Affordable fresh produce and basic health food options.

3. Organic Stores and Specialty Shops

For those seeking organic and specialty health products, Ajman has several options:

Organic Stores

  • Organic Foods and Café (Dubai): While not in Ajman, this store in nearby Dubai delivers organic groceries, superfoods, and supplements to Ajman.
  • Greenheart Organic Farms (Delivery): Offers fresh, locally grown organic produce delivered to your doorstep.

Specialty Health Stores

  • Holland & Barrett (Dubai): A well-known health store offering vitamins, supplements, and health foods. Delivery to Ajman is available.
  • Life Pharmacy: Stocks health supplements, protein powders, and diet-specific products.

4. Dining Establishments Offering Nutritious Meals

Ajman has a variety of restaurants and cafes that cater to health-conscious diners:

Healthy Restaurants

  1. Zaitouna House

    • Cuisine: Mediterranean
    • Healthy Options: Grilled meats, fresh salads, and hummus.
    • Approximate Cost: AED 50–70 per person.

  2. Themar Al Bahar

    • Cuisine: Seafood
    • Healthy Options: Grilled fish, steamed vegetables, and fresh juices.
    • Approximate Cost: AED 60–80 per person.

  3. Shakespeare and Co.

    • Cuisine: International
    • Healthy Options: Quinoa salads, avocado toast, and fresh smoothies.
    • Approximate Cost: AED 70–100 per person.

  4. Falafel Farm

    • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
    • Healthy Options: Baked falafel, whole wheat wraps, and fresh salads.
    • Approximate Cost: AED 30–50 per person.

Cafes with Healthy Snacks

  • Café Nero: Offers healthy snacks like granola bars, fresh juices, and salads.
  • Starbucks: Provides lighter options like oatmeal, fruit cups, and low-calorie drinks.

5. Approximate Costs of Healthy Eating in Ajman

  • Fresh Produce: AED 5–15 per kilogram for fruits and vegetables.
  • Organic Products: AED 20–50 for specialty items like organic quinoa or almond milk.
  • Dining Out: AED 30–100 per meal, depending on the restaurant.
  • Meal Prep Services: AED 1,000–2,000 per month for weekly healthy meal plans delivered to your home.

6. Cultural Considerations

  • Halal Food: All food in Ajman is halal, in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. This means pork and alcohol are not served in most establishments.
  • Fasting During Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. Plan your meals accordingly.
  • Hospitality: Emirati culture emphasizes hospitality, so you may be offered traditional dishes when visiting locals. Politely decline or take small portions if the food doesn’t align with your dietary preferences.

7. Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet in Ajman

  1. Stay Hydrated: The UAE’s climate is hot and dry, so drink plenty of water. Opt for bottled or filtered water.
  2. Plan Your Meals: Prepare meals at home using fresh ingredients from local markets to control portion sizes and ingredients.
  3. Explore Meal Prep Services: Companies like Kcal Extra and Right Bite deliver healthy, calorie-controlled meals to your home.
  4. Read Labels: When shopping for packaged foods, check for added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
  5. Stay Active: Combine healthy eating with physical activity. Ajman has parks and fitness centers to help you stay fit.

8. Relevant Procedures

  • Importing Specialty Foods: If you require specific dietary products not available locally, you can import them. Ensure they comply with UAE customs regulations.
  • Food Delivery Apps: Use apps like Talabat, Zomato, or Deliveroo to order healthy meals or groceries.
  • Health Checkups: Visit local clinics or hospitals for dietary consultations or to check for deficiencies. Many facilities in Ajman offer nutrition counseling.

Conclusion

Ajman offers a variety of options for maintaining a healthy diet, from fresh local produce and organic stores to restaurants serving nutritious meals. By exploring local markets, dining establishments, and meal prep services, you can easily adopt a healthy lifestyle in this vibrant emirate. Remember to consider cultural norms and stay hydrated in the hot climate. With a little planning, you can enjoy a balanced and nutritious diet while living in or visiting Ajman.