Preparing your body now to make Ramadhan fasting easy
One must reduce snacking and consume less caffeinated beverages ahead of the holy month
Published: 05:03 PM,Mar 18,2023 | EDITED : 10:03 AM,Mar 19,2023
Muscat: As Ramadhan approaches, it is time to start preparing your body for a period of fasting. While fasting has many health benefits, it can also be challenging for some people. There are many ways that people can get in shape for Ramadhan, from changing meal times to increasing physical activity.
Dr Muna al Kaabi, general practitioner, said, 'Many people get tired on the first days of Ramadhan, especially the first day it can be tough for some people. The body moves from one state to another through a lack of energy sources during the fasting period.'
According to Dr Muna, the body takes time to adjust to the change in eating habits. To avoid feeling tired and lethargic during the first days of Ramadhan, it is recommended to change the routine a few days before the holy month.
'Start adjusting your eating habits a few weeks before Ramadhan, by shifting meal timing and avoiding eating snacks between meals,' Dr Muna told the Observer. Extending the time between breakfast and lunch without eating snacks to prepare the body for prolonged fasting, she explained.
Dr Muna also emphasised the importance of staying hydrated. 'Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated during fasting. Moreover, people who consume high caffeine daily should reduce intake. If a person consumes three to four cups of coffee per day, s/he has to start reducing this amount before Ramadhan or replacing it with drinks that contain less caffeine, such as tea. This is essential to avoid headaches during fasting.'
As for those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, she said it is crucial to consult a doctor before fasting. A healthcare provider can help determine if fasting is safe and provide guidance on how to manage medications and blood sugar levels during the holy month.
By following these tips, you can help prepare your body for Ramadhan and make the fasting experience more manageable. Moreover, remember to take care of your health during Ramadhan and listen to your body’s needs.
Dr Muna al Kaabi, general practitioner, said, 'Many people get tired on the first days of Ramadhan, especially the first day it can be tough for some people. The body moves from one state to another through a lack of energy sources during the fasting period.'
According to Dr Muna, the body takes time to adjust to the change in eating habits. To avoid feeling tired and lethargic during the first days of Ramadhan, it is recommended to change the routine a few days before the holy month.
'Start adjusting your eating habits a few weeks before Ramadhan, by shifting meal timing and avoiding eating snacks between meals,' Dr Muna told the Observer. Extending the time between breakfast and lunch without eating snacks to prepare the body for prolonged fasting, she explained.
Dr Muna also emphasised the importance of staying hydrated. 'Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated during fasting. Moreover, people who consume high caffeine daily should reduce intake. If a person consumes three to four cups of coffee per day, s/he has to start reducing this amount before Ramadhan or replacing it with drinks that contain less caffeine, such as tea. This is essential to avoid headaches during fasting.'
As for those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, she said it is crucial to consult a doctor before fasting. A healthcare provider can help determine if fasting is safe and provide guidance on how to manage medications and blood sugar levels during the holy month.
By following these tips, you can help prepare your body for Ramadhan and make the fasting experience more manageable. Moreover, remember to take care of your health during Ramadhan and listen to your body’s needs.