
Health Benefits of Nabeez Drink (Sunnah): Dates Soaked in Water Overnight
Quick Answers
- What is Nabeez? A Sunnah drink made by soaking dates or raisins in water overnight; drink the infusion the next day.
- How to make it? Soak 3–5 pitted dates or a small handful of raisins in 250–350 ml water for 8–12 hours, covered. Strain. Do not mix the two fruits in one batch.
- Top benefits: Hydration, gentle natural energy, potassium- and magnesium-rich infusion, fiber from softened fruit, easy on the stomach when breaking a fast.
- Best time to drink: Suhoor or Iftar in Ramadan, first thing in the morning, or 30–60 minutes pre-workout.
- Storage: Keep covered in the fridge and finish within 24–48 hours. Discard if sour/fizzy (signs of fermentation).
- Safety: Contains natural sugars; those with diabetes or kidney disease should consult a clinician for personalized guidance.
Nabeez—also spelled Nabidh or Nabeedh—is a simple, nourishing infusion created by soaking dates or raisins in water overnight. As a practice associated with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it carries spiritual meaning alongside practical, everyday usefulness. The recipe could not be simpler, yet the drink has a devoted following because it delivers gentle natural sweetness, a clean ingredient list, and a format that is kind to the stomach when you are fasting or easing into your morning routine.
What Is Nabeez (Nabidh)? Origin, Meaning & Sunnah Context
In the Arabic tradition, the term “Nabidh” refers to fruit steeped in water. In the Prophetic tradition, the preferred fruits for this drink are dates or raisins. Nabeez is often prepared in the evening and consumed the following day. This simple method lets the water draw out the fruit’s flavors and water-soluble nutrients. The result is a mildly sweet, hydrating beverage—especially valued by people observing long fasts.
Over time, families and communities across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond have preserved this practice, passing it on as part of their culinary and spiritual heritage. Today, many people enjoy Nabeez during Ramadan at Suhoor to sustain themselves for the day, and at Iftar to break a fast gently before moving on to a full meal.
Sunnah Guidelines: Covering, Not Mixing, and Avoiding Fermentation
- Cover the container: Keep the jar covered to maintain hygiene and to follow the Prophetic etiquette of safeguarding food and drink.
- Use dates or raisins: Traditional guidance keeps them separate in a single batch. Make one jar with dates or another jar with raisins if you want both options.
- Avoid fermentation: Nabeez is consumed while fresh. If the drink smells sour, fizzy, or alcoholic, discard it. Refrigeration slows changes and helps preserve freshness for up to 24–48 hours.
Ingredients & Tools
- Fruit: 3–5 soft, pitted dates (Ajwa is treasured, but any good variety works) or 20–30 g raisins. Choose clean, quality fruit.
- Water: 250–350 ml (adjust to taste and jar size).
- Jar: A glass jar with a lid or a clean cloth cover.
- Strainer: For a clear infusion the next day.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Nabeez at Home
- Choose your fruit: Decide between dates or raisins—do not mix them in the same batch.
- Rinse & prep: Quickly rinse the fruit. Pit dates if necessary so water infuses more evenly.
- Add water: Place fruit in a clean jar and pour in 250–350 ml water. Ensure the fruit is submerged.
- Cover & soak: Cover and let it sit for 8–12 hours. For a chilled version, refrigerate while soaking.
- Strain & serve: Strain the infused water into a glass. Drink slowly. Optionally eat the softened fruit for extra fiber.
- Store safely: Refrigerate any leftover infusion and consume within 24–48 hours. Discard if any off-smell or fizz appears.
Pro Tips, Variations & Flavor Ideas (Non-Modern Additions Kept Minimal)
- Fruit quality matters: Softer, fresh dates infuse faster. With raisins, darker varieties yield a richer color.
- Water-to-fruit ratio for batches: For a large family batch, use ~20–25 dates per liter of water. Keep the same “one fruit per jar” rule.
- Serve cool or room temperature: Either is fine—choose what’s easiest on your stomach.
- Subtle aromatics (optional): If you prefer, steep a single cardamom pod beside the fruit for a mild aroma. Keep additions minimal to preserve the Sunnah simplicity.
- Do not boil: Nabeez is an infusion, not a cooked syrup. Heat changes flavor and can push the mixture toward spoilage if stored improperly.
Health Benefits of Nabeez Drink
Nabeez is not a miracle cure, but it is a practical habit: clean hydration, gentle energy, and nutrients from whole fruit. Below are benefits commonly associated with properly prepared Nabeez. Everyone’s needs are different; listen to your body and consult your healthcare professional for personal advice.
1) Hydration + Electrolytes for Daily Energy
Water is the base of Nabeez; the fruit adds natural sugars and electrolytes like potassium, with small amounts of magnesium. Many people find this combination gives a steady lift—useful in the early morning or when breaking a fast at sunset.
2) Gentle on the Stomach When Breaking a Fast
Because it is a mild infusion with no heavy fats or spices, Nabeez is typically easier on the stomach than rich foods. Starting Iftar with Nabeez can help you rehydrate and “wake up” digestion before a balanced meal.
3) Natural, Minimal-Ingredient Beverage
Nabeez contains just two ingredients—fruit and water. This simplicity makes it an attractive alternative to sugary drinks with additives. The softened fruit supplies fiber, which supports regularity and helps you feel satisfied.
4) Micronutrients from Dates or Raisins
Dates and raisins provide potassium, small amounts of magnesium and calcium, iron in modest amounts, and B vitamins such as B6. The infusion captures some water-soluble components while the softened fruit delivers fiber and more of the micronutrient package.
5) Antioxidant Support from Whole Fruit
Dates and raisins contain natural polyphenols and other antioxidants. While the exact antioxidant level of any single jar varies by fruit variety and soak time, using quality fruit and consuming Nabeez fresh helps you take advantage of these plant compounds as part of a balanced diet.
6) Practical During Busy Days
The “set it and forget it” method is a win for time-strapped schedules. A covered jar in the fridge gives you a ready-to-drink option in the morning with the fruit ready to eat.
Nabeez Benefits for Women
- Iron & energy support: Dates and raisins naturally contain iron and carbohydrates—helpful for women who want a gentle energy source. As always, discuss individual iron needs with your clinician.
- Bone-friendly minerals: Potassium and small amounts of magnesium and calcium contribute to a well-rounded dietary pattern that supports bones—especially when paired with strength training and a nutrient-dense diet.
- Convenient hydration: For people managing busy routines, Nabeez can encourage consistent fluid intake with a pleasant, natural taste.
- Skin & overall wellness: Whole fruits provide phytonutrients and fiber. While hydration and diet are not skin “cures,” they are cornerstones of general well-being.
When to Drink Nabeez: Ramadan, Suhoor, Iftar & Daily Routines
- Suhoor (pre-dawn): A glass of Nabeez helps you begin the fasting day hydrated, with a steady release of natural sugars.
- Iftar (sunset): Take small sips to rehydrate, then eat a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Morning routine: Many enjoy Nabeez on an empty stomach as a gentle start to the day.
- Pre-workout: Drink 30–60 minutes before activity for quick, easy-to-digest energy.
Precautions, Side Notes & Who Should Be Careful
- Natural sugars: Dates and raisins are sweet. If you have diabetes or insulin resistance, monitor portions and speak with your healthcare professional.
- Kidney considerations: People on potassium-restricted diets should ask their clinician how Nabeez fits into their plan.
- Dental care: Rinse your mouth after consuming dried fruit or sweet infusions; brush as recommended by your dentist.
- Fermentation risk: Always keep the jar covered and cold after straining. Discard if the aroma becomes sour, fizzy, or alcoholic.
- Infants & young children: Consult a pediatrician for age-appropriate portions and timing. Avoid choking hazards from whole fruit.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can I mix dates and raisins together?
No. Traditional practice uses one fruit per batch. If you want both, prepare two jars.
How many dates do I need for one glass?
Three to five soft dates usually suffice for 250–350 ml water. Adjust to taste and fruit quality.
What is the best soak time?
8–12 hours works well for flavor and convenience. Longer soaks increase the risk of fermentation; refrigerate if you will exceed 12 hours.
Is Nabeez good for weight loss?
Nabeez is not a weight-loss product. However, swapping sugary sodas for Nabeez can reduce ultra-processed drink intake. Weight outcomes depend on your overall diet and activity.
Which dates are best—Ajwa or others?
Ajwa is revered, yet any good-quality, soft variety works. Taste, freshness, and cleanliness matter most.
Can I warm Nabeez?
Nabeez is traditionally an infusion at room temperature or chilled. Avoid boiling or prolonged heating, which changes flavor and defeats the purpose of a simple soak.
How do I know if Nabeez has fermented?
Sour, fizzy, or “alcohol-like” smell or taste means discard it immediately. When in doubt, throw it out.
References & Further Reading
- General nutrition and fruit profiles: reputable public health and nutrition portals (e.g., registered dietitian–reviewed articles and governmental health resources).
- Hydration, fasting, and gentle refeeding practices: guidance from qualified healthcare professionals.
- Traditional context and etiquette around food and drink: classical Islamic texts and well-known educational resources.
HURZUK — passionate about evidence-informed wellness, traditional foods, and simple recipes that fit busy lives.
Mohammad Abid Hurzuk — entrepreneur and writer, known for practical guidance on the dates (khajoor) business and traditional date-based foods and beverages.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your diet, especially if you have conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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