I have been fasting regularly now for 20 odd years. And let me tell you I have made all the mistakes. Ate so much at buffets, they have to wheel me out on a gurney. Suffered nights of indigestion. During uni days with limited funds and a need to look like a waif, I only ate one meal. By the time the 10th day of fasting came, I clear passed out during an economics lecture.

There's more. But the stories are dodgy so let's just put it that though I've always fasted sincerely, there have been times when I've completely missed the point of it all.

That fasting is time to reflect and be thankful for something as simple as knowing where your next meal is coming from. It's also a time of moderation. And I suppose with the siren call of buffets and Pasar Ramadhans galore, it's hard to keep centred.

Here's some stuff I came up with through the years to not go nutts during Ramadhan.

For some odd reason, people go CRAZY over ayam percik golek during Ramadhan

Focus: Pasar Ramadhans are a great time waster. And it's a real treat to see what exciting things might be on offer this year. But when you go, to stop that itch of buying everything that looks greasy and delicious FOCUS. Plan ahead on what you might like to eat. Ogle all you like but keep strong. Don't be tempted to get into a line just because there are loads of people there unless you are really, really desperate for that specific putu piring. Usually after standing in line for so long you'll be inclined to by a lot more just to make the effort worth it.

Buffet Etiquette: It takes skill to resist buffets. Generally because of the hefty price tag, people tend to overeat because they want to make it worth their money. As a result the amount of wastage during buffets is quite astounding. Take a good walk around and identify what you want to eat. Go for quality not quantity. Fill up on the light stuff first. And please chew your food properly.

I always hanker for something meaty at a buffet

Sahur Blues: Many people would just eat before they go to sleep so they won't have to wake up at 4. In actual fact, sahur makes a lot of sense. Even if you have some biscuits and milo in the morning, it gets your system running. This means by eating small meals throughout the night your metabolic rate will not drop down too much and it keeps you healthier.

Fruits and Fibre: Some problems that are common during fasting- excessive burping due to an empty stomach, dehydration because of not enough liquids and constipation. Yes, eat your carbs and proteins but don't forget fruits to keep your digestion happy. What I do is have something to eat during for break fast, carry on the night's activities and then have some fruits an hour or two before sleeping. Bananas and papayas are good. Have some oatmeal in the morning and nuts. Your bowels will thank you in the morning. And yeah drink that water... all through the night.

Even if you don't have any other fruits, just a banana would do

Pace Yourself: Find a new rhythm during fasting month. Yes, things might move a little slower but sometimes with my systems powered down, I do find clarity of mind. Do most of your mental work in the morning while you are still fresh. Sort out things in the afternoon that's less taxing. Don't drive when you're sleepy. Don't operate heavy machinery. When you hit the wall, you hit the wall. Give yourself a break. Read a book and continue your work after break fast.

Find out how to stay healthy during Ramadhan here