(Ramadan Fasting and Your Health 2026 Lecture Series – Lecture 2)
Bismillah Walhamdulillah Was Salaatu Was Salaam ‘ala Rasulillah!
Several health conditions are of public health concern for Muslims observing the fast of the month of Ramadan, which involves abstinence from food, drink, smoking, and sexual activity from dawn to dusk. The daily fasting period may vary from 13 to 18 hours depending on the region and season. This prolonged abstinence from food and fluids, altered sleep patterns, increased devotional activities, and changes in meal composition may shift physiological functions and affect individuals with underlying health conditions.
Why Do Muslims Fast?
Muslims, who constitute about 25% of the global population, fast during the month of Ramadan as one of the five pillars of Islam. The Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183–185), prescribes fasting for Muslims in the month of Ramadan:
"O you who have faith! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard yourselves (against evil)."
"(Fast for) a certain number of days. But whoever among you is sick or on a journey, then (he shall fast) the same number of other days. And for those who are able to fast only with hardship, there is a ransom by feeding an indigent person. But whoever volunteers to do good, it is better for him; and it is better for you that you fast, if only you knew."
"The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur'an was sent down as guidance for mankind and as clear proofs of guidance and a criterion (between right and wrong). Therefore, whoever of you is present during the month shall fast therein; and whoever is sick or on a journey shall fast the same number of other days. Allah desires ease for you and does not desire hardship for you; and He wants you to complete the prescribed period and to glorify Him for having guided you, so that you may be grateful."
Islam has provided alternatives for the sick, travelers, the elderly, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women if they face difficulty while fasting. However, some individuals may still choose to fast due to devotion, spiritual rewards, personal willpower, cultural reasons, or a sense of inclusion. It is therefore important to recognize individuals with chronic diseases and special needs and provide appropriate guidance during Ramadan.
Some health conditions of concern include diabetes, hypertension, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, digestive discomfort and gastrointestinal issues, mental health fluctuations, cardiovascular and kidney diseases, as well as concerns affecting pregnant and breastfeeding women and the elderly. We will briefly highlight some of these conditions and discuss them in greater detail in subsequent lectures. It is also important for anyone intending to fast to consult a healthcare provider before and during Ramadan for proper medical guidance.
Diabetes, Hyperglycemia, and Hypoglycemia
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia) resulting from insufficient insulin production (Type 1) or ineffective use of insulin (Type 2). It commonly presents with frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, and fatigue.
A person with diabetes may also experience low blood glucose (hypoglycemia), especially due to medications used to manage diabetes, including insulin injections and some oral medications. These conditions may worsen during fasting because of prolonged abstinence from food and drink, altered sleep patterns, and dietary changes.
It is essential for individuals with diabetes to consult their healthcare provider before the commencement of Ramadan for proper guidance, medication adjustment, nutritional advice, and regular blood glucose monitoring. Insulin-dependent diabetic patients are generally not advised to fast without strict medical supervision.
Hypertension and Other Cardiovascular Diseases
Most patients with controlled hypertension can fast during Ramadan, but caution is necessary, particularly for those taking certain medications. Diuretics, which increase urination, may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. These should be discussed with a healthcare provider for possible adjustment, appropriate timing, or substitution.
If prescribed, diuretics are better taken during Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) with adequate fluid intake to maintain hydration. Taking them late at night may cause frequent urination, sleep disturbance, and weakness. Sustained-release or long-acting formulations may be preferable during Ramadan due to their lower risk of rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Patients with stable heart disease are usually safe to fast, but those with recent heart attacks or unstable conditions are at higher risk and should always consult their healthcare provider before deciding to fast.
Digestive Discomfort and Gastrointestinal Issues
Ramadan often brings sudden dietary changes. Excessive eating at Iftar (breaking the fast), consumption of high-fat and spicy foods, and reduced physical activity may lead to indigestion, bloating, constipation, and acid reflux.
It is advisable to break the fast with dates, water, milk, and fruits rich in minerals and nutrients. Avoid overeating and do not go to bed immediately after meals. Observing Suhoor with fiber-rich and nutritious foods can help maintain digestive health. Medical consultation should be sought if symptoms persist.
Special Needs Individuals
Pregnant and breastfeeding women have increased physiological demands, which may become more significant during fasting. Risks may include dehydration, low birth weight, and reduced milk supply. Islam permits them to postpone fasting if they experience difficulty and make it up later.
Menstruating women are exempt from fasting during their menstrual period but are required to make up the missed days after Ramadan.
The elderly who are unable to fast due to advanced age or chronic illness are also exempted and may instead feed the needy as prescribed in Islamic guidance.
Conclusion
Ramadan fasting offers several potential health benefits, including improved cardiovascular risk factors such as lower LDL cholesterol, higher HDL cholesterol, reduced inflammation, and weight reduction. However, certain health conditions of public health importance—such as diabetes, hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders—require careful consideration.
Individuals with chronic health conditions should seek proper medical guidance before and during Ramadan. Healthcare professionals also have a responsibility to understand Islamic rulings on fasting and provide culturally sensitive management options for Muslims observing Ramadan, who constitute about 25% of the global population.
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