Ramadan fasting: Spiritual practice yields health benefits

TDT | Agencies

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As millions of Muslims around the world observe Ramadan, the month of fasting is often seen as a time for spiritual growth, self-reflection, and deepening faith. However, beyond its religious significance, fasting during Ramadan also brings a range of health benefits, with modern science increasingly uncovering its positive effects on the body and mind.

Fasting and Its Impact on the Body

Fasting from dawn to dusk is an act of discipline that fosters empathy, patience, and generosity. While its primary purpose is spiritual, scientific research over the past decade has highlighted how this practice mirrors intermittent fasting—a dietary pattern that limits food intake to specific periods and has been linked to various health advantages.

Studies suggest that intermittent fasting triggers metabolic changes in the body, shifting how energy is stored and utilized. This process, known as metabolic switching, has been shown to improve mental and physical health by enhancing disease resistance and promoting longevity. Research is also exploring the potential of fasting to aid in the management of conditions such as cancer, asthma, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

Aiding Weight Loss and Heart Health

One of the most immediate benefits of fasting is its effect on weight management. When food intake is restricted to specific hours, the body becomes more efficient at burning fat. Research on Ramadan fasting has shown that many individuals experience a reduction in body fat and waist circumference, lowering their risk of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Fasting also contributes to cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and heart rate. These improvements collectively reduce the risk of strokes, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, making Ramadan an opportunity to cultivate healthier habits that can extend beyond the holy month.

Boosting Brain Health and Cognitive

Function Scientific studies indicate that fasting may play a role in improving brain function by stimulating the production of new brain cells. This could lead to enhanced memory, focus, and cognitive abilities, with potential long-term benefits in slowing age-related neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Even in the short term, research has found that the brain experiences positive changes during Ramadan fasting, suggesting that mental clarity and emotional well-being can improve throughout the month.

Fuelling the Body with Traditional Foods

While fasting has its benefits, what people consume during suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking of the fast) significantly impacts their energy levels and overall health. Traditional foods eaten during Ramadan provide essential nutrients to sustain individuals throughout the fasting hours.

Dates, a staple of iftar meals, are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals, making them a quick source of energy while supporting digestion and brain function. Fresh fruits, such as melons, pomegranates, and bananas, offer hydration and vital nutrients. Meanwhile, lean proteins like fish and chicken provide a fulfilling yet light source of nourishment, preventing sluggishness and digestive issues. Lentils, commonly found in Ramadan soups and stews, are packed with protein and fiber, promoting gut health and prolonged energy release.

Breaking Bad Habits

Beyond its dietary benefits, Ramadan serves as a chance to abandon harmful habits, such as smoking and excessive sugar consumption. Many Muslims find it easier to quit smoking after fasting for a month, as research has shown that the structured discipline of Ramadan can help curb nicotine cravings.

In 2015, an experimental smoking cessation program during Ramadan demonstrated the effectiveness of faith-based interventions. The initiative, which incorporated religious teachings and behavioral support, helped many participants quit smoking permanently. This underscores Ramadan’s potential as a transformative period for positive lifestyle changes.

A Month of Spiritual and Physical Renewal

As the holy month continues, Ramadan remains a powerful reminder of the connection between body and soul. While the primary purpose of fasting is spiritual, its health benefits reinforce the wisdom behind the practice. By embracing mindful eating, physical wellness, and personal discipline, Muslims around the world can emerge from Ramadan with not only a strengthened faith but also a healthier body and mind.