The Qur’an has not restricted itself in merely mentioning the permissible and impermissible foods but goes to the extent of giving useful tips regarding a balanced diet, a diet which contains most if not all the useful ingredients required for the growth, strengthening and repairing of the human body. These ingredients include animal protein, fat, calcium, iron, salts, etc. The most balanced diets consist of meat, fish, fresh milk, cheese and fruit. Both direct and indirect references have been made regarding the afore mentioned.

The reference regarding the importance of meat protein in the human diet is given in the following verse:

'And the livestock—He created them for you. In them are warmth and benefits for you, and of them you eat.' (Surah an-Nahl, 5)

In this verse special reference has been given to the importance of eating despite having said,

“…numerous benefits…”.Reference regarding other types of meat has also been given such as the meat of fowls in the following verse:

'And the flesh of fowls that they desire.'  (Surah al-Waqi'ah, 21)

Fish has always been considered as a food of very high protein and is very important for human consumption. Allah says:

'And from both of them (fresh and salt water) you eat fresh tender meat (fish).'  (Surah Fatir, 12)

The usefulness of fresh milk is stressed in these words:

'And verily in the cattle there is a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies, from between excretion and blood, pure milk, palatable to the drinkers.' (Surah an-Nahl, 66)

Islam, being a complete religion, also teaches and advises the believer as to what the best method of eating is. The believers are advised to be moderate in every aspect of life. Direct reference has been made in the Noble Qur’an regarding moderation in eating and drinking.

'And eat and drink, but waste not in extravagance, certainly He (Allah) likes not those who waste in extravagance.' (Surah al-A'raf, 31)

Moderation - The Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him

The Best of Teachers and the Mercy of the Worlds peace be upon him is reported to have clarified the meaning and limit of moderation in a tradition in which he is reported to have said that one’s worst weakness is one’s belly. If you must eat make sure you fill one third of your stomach with food, one third with water and leave one third for air i.e. leave it empty.