4 common Ramadan mistakes that negate the health and spiritual benefits of fasting
Introduction: Ramadan is an opportunity for spiritual and physical renewal
The holy month of Ramadan is an exceptional period for Muslims worldwide. It is not merely abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset, but rather a school for self-discipline, strengthening moral character, and renewing one's spiritual connection with the Creator. Fasting, the fourth pillar of Islam, offers numerous health and physical benefits, giving the digestive system a chance to rest and helping the body eliminate toxins. However, to achieve these noble goals, fasting must be accompanied by sound health practices. Some misguided behaviors, practiced with good intentions, can rob fasting of its essence and benefits, transforming this precious opportunity into a health burden. In this context, experts have warned against four common habits that can negatively impact the health of those fasting.
1. Neglecting medication management: a mistake that threatens those with chronic diseases
One of the most common mistakes some patients make, especially those with chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, is neglecting their medication schedules. Dr. Hadeer Mustafa Mir, a consultant in radiation oncology, emphasized that some patients whose doctors permit them to fast may neglect to adjust their medication dosages between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), either due to being preoccupied with worship or the mistaken belief that delaying the dose will not have any effect. This behavior can expose the patient to serious complications, as preserving life is a fundamental principle of Islamic law, and adhering to the treatment plan is an integral part of worship. Patients should consult their doctor before Ramadan to adjust their medication schedules and dosages to accommodate fasting hours, ensuring the stability of their health without endangering themselves.
2. Sleep deprivation: Staying up late steals your focus and energy
Lifestyles change dramatically during Ramadan, with many people staying up late into the night, whether for worship or social gatherings, before waking up for suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Dr. Omar Qusay Qanbar, a sleep medicine specialist, explained that insufficient sleep disrupts the body's circadian rhythm. This imbalance not only causes fatigue and lethargy during the day but also affects concentration, increases stress and irritability, and weakens the immune system. A healthy body, capable of performing daily tasks and religious duties with devotion, requires adequate rest. Therefore, it is essential to manage time effectively, balance worship and rest, and ensure at least 6-8 hours of sleep daily, even if divided into shorter periods.
3. Drinking water all at once during Suhoor: The myth of hydration
Many believe that drinking large amounts of water all at once just before dawn will protect them from thirst throughout the following day. However, Dr. Faisal Abdulrahim Shaheen, a consultant nephrologist, warned against this misconception. When the body receives a large amount of fluids in a short period, it cannot store them. The kidneys quickly eliminate the excess through urine, and thus the body does not benefit from this water for long-term hydration. The correct approach is to distribute fluid intake, especially water, in moderate amounts over a period of time between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), giving the body ample opportunity to absorb and utilize it effectively.
4. Kitchen accidents: Increased burns before breakfast
Dermatologist Dr. Haitham Mahmoud Shawli pointed to a worrying phenomenon that recurs during Ramadan: the increased rate of burns in homes, especially among housewives. This is attributed to fatigue and decreased concentration resulting from fasting, as well as the rush to prepare the Iftar meal just before sunset. This haste in handling hot oils and ovens increases the likelihood of painful accidents that could mar the holy month. To prevent such incidents, he advises planning meals in advance, starting cooking well in advance to avoid rushing, keeping children out of the kitchen while food is being prepared, and following basic safety procedures for handling hot appliances.
Importance and expected impact: from the individual to society
These harmful behaviors not only affect the individual but have broader implications. On a personal level, they deprive those fasting of achieving the desired balance between health and spirituality. On a community level, these practices increase the pressure on healthcare facilities and emergency departments, whether for treating burns or managing complications of chronic diseases. Health awareness and adopting healthy habits during Ramadan contribute to building a healthier and more productive society, ensuring that the holy month is a genuine opportunity for spiritual and physical growth.
