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Abu Dhabi: With the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims begin a journey of spiritual contemplation, strengthening faith and living the values and lessons of fasting during this holy season.
While fasting has many known benefits, such as improved circulation, improved immune function, and improved cardiovascular health, not everyone can participate in this religious observance without careful consideration.
Personalized medical advice
People with pre-existing medical conditions or chronic illnesses may face unique challenges in adhering to fasting traditions due to their ongoing treatment.
However, with careful planning and guidance from health professionals, fasting is still possible for those suffering from medical conditions, such as colorectal cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS).
Dr. Riyaz Thottakurichi, Staff Physician, Primary Care Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Medical Subspecialty Institute, emphasizes the importance of personalized medical advice for patients who choose to fast during Ramadan.
Taking into account factors such as drug interaction, metabolic demand, and physiological responses to fasting is crucial in determining the feasibility of fasting in people with chronic medical conditions,” explained Dr. Thottakurichi.
– Dr. Riyaz Thottakurichi
“While fasting may be possible for many patients with chronic illnesses, each individual’s health needs are unique,” said Dr. Thottakurichi.
“For example, people with colorectal cancer may need to adjust their dietary intake and medication schedule, while people with MS should be careful to monitor fatigue and hydration levels during fasting hours.
He also added that fasting may pose greater challenges for MS patients with higher levels of physical disability, as immobility and other related problems can lead to a greater susceptibility to conditions such as constipation and urinary tract infections.
Dr. Riyaz Thottakurichi
“Considering factors such as drug interaction, metabolic demand, and physiological responses to fasting is crucial in determining the feasibility of fasting in people with chronic medical conditions,” explained Dr. Thottakurichi.
To help people with chronic medical conditions navigate the Ramadan fast safely, here are some tips and healthy habits to consider:
1. Consult your doctor
It is advisable to consult a doctor and nutritionist before deciding to fast. It is essential that patients evaluate their health status and understand the proper way to practice fasting. Failure to adopt healthy habits during Ramadan fasting can lead to aggravation of pre-existing medical conditions, exposure to health problems, or excessive weight gain.
2. Stay hydrated
Make sure you stay sufficiently hydrated by drinking enough water (at least 10 glasses) between iftar and suhoor, especially for people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis that can increase susceptibility to heat-related problems. Caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks should also be avoided as they can lead to frequent urination, leading to dehydration.
3. Plan your meals wisely
Focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods during suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (dinner) to support your health and energy levels throughout the day.
Avoid diets high in sodium and fried or processed foods. Furthermore, for diabetic patients, it is essential to reduce the consumption of sugar-rich foods and drinks during iftar.
4. ‘Listen’ to your body
Pay attention to how your body responds to fasting and adjust your routine accordingly. If you experience significant discomfort or worsening symptoms, consider modifying your fasting practices by seeking medical advice.
5. Do moderate exercise
Fasting and dehydration can naturally cause lethargy and make your routine become sedentary. However, it is important to exercise in moderate amounts to stay functional and healthy. Staying active helps reduce fatigue, gives the body the strength to keep going and is a good opportunity to lose weight, if necessary.
It is best to exercise just before suhoor or a few hours after iftar to get the most out of your workouts. Also, consult your doctor before adopting an exercise routine during Ramadan, to ensure a balance between your treatment and your physical condition.
Fasting Ramadan can be a spiritually enriching experience for people with chronic medical conditions, as long as it is approached with careful consideration and medical supervision.
By following these tips and seeking personalized advice from health professionals, people can observe and enjoy the happy period of Ramadan while managing their health effectively.
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