Get to Know... Health Benefits of Fasting in Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, introspection, and prayer for Muslims During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.

A common dietary practice of the holy month of Islam fasting is to consume a large meal after sunset and then a lighter meal before dawn.

Although millions of Muslims around the world have successfully observed the spiritual cleansing of the holy month for more than a thousand years, some people fear that fasting over such a long time will have detrimental effects on their health.

If you’re one of those people, then check out these two health benefits facts you’ll enjoy during and after Ramadan.

First fact: During the fasting month, a detoxification process also occurs as toxins stored in your body’s fat are dissolved and removed.

By not eating or drinking throughout the day your body will be offered the rare chance to detoxify your digestive system throughout the month.

Second fact: Our body will enter a fasting state nearly eight hours after their last meal when our gut completes the absorption of nutrients from our food.  In the same vein, because we will be fasting during the day, Ramadan is the perfect time to ditch our bad habits for good. Vices such as smoking, eating fast food, and sugary foods should not be indulged during this great month, and as you abstain from them our body will gradually acclimatize to their absence until our addiction is kicked for good.

According to nutritionists, people need to eat a variety of foods during the evening. Now, more than ever, their body needs good nourishment to compensate for the stress of fasting. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein, healthy fat from plants, like olive oil and nuts—all of these are significant to give their body all the nutrients it needs.

Ultimately, this is the most joyous month of the year! Enjoy meals with others, exercise goodwill, and be patient with your body and with others.