The queen is concerned that people are tending to overeat after sunset because they have deprived themselves of food during the day, and is backing the government media campaign to encourage people to steer clear of heavy, rich meals in the evening.
The campaign - comprising a series of cartoon TV adverts featuring slogans such as 'Don't overeat' and 'Exercise and stay healthy' - intends to educate people of the danger of overeating, and the increased risk of heart attacks and diabetic comas.
Statistics in Jordan showed the cases of strokes, diabetes and indigestion increased dramatically during the first week of Ramadan.
Campaign director Inaam Barrishi said: "Fasters adopt suicidal habits. We want them to get healthy. If the cartoon influences even seven per cent of Jordanians, then we'll consider it a success.'"
Dr. Sultan Abdullah, a health ministry official, added: "People who fast go to the extreme because they feel deprived of their daily routine. It will take a while to change people's behaviour, but this is a good start."
