Fasting: Doctors offer tips on keeping it simple and healthy

Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan for people with medical complications need approval from physicians and should be regularly monitored, emphasised experts.

“There’s no hard and fast rule that all those suffering from cardiovascular or kidney disease, or diabetes can’t fast. They can, if they do it right, and are in regular consultation with their doctors,” stressed Dr Adil Obeid, Nephrologist, Sobeh’s Vascular and Medical Center in Dubai Healthcare City.

Talking to Emirates24|7, Dr Zuhair Yousef, Interventional Cardiologist at Mediclinic City Hospital in Dubai Healthcare City, added, “Ramadan fasting is an opportunity towards a healthier lifestyle and if done right, it could benefit those suffering from heart diseases or other medical complications.”

 Fasting if done right will help patients immensely. He added that it helps in accumulating good cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, and reducing weight and stress. “It also contributes to the spiritual wellbeing of the individual,” he said, adding that there have been many observations in the medical field to suggest this.

Therefore it’s vital that patients remain disciplined about their diet and exercise.

The key, however, is to first get approval from their physicians before starting the fast. In fact, Dr Adil suggested that patients must consult doctors a month before Ramadan starts to assess their situation. “That’s not all. They must consult their doctors during Ramadan because one month is a long time. This will ensure they are on the right track,” informed Dr Adil.

During fasting, especially in the case of patients with kidney disease or diabetes, the medication will need to be altered to factor in the long hours of fasting. “Medications that work regularly will not be adequate when the body is fasting, and might lead to complications. So, patients must check with their doctors,” Dr Zuhair added.

Care must also be taken to ensure that when they break their fast they shouldn’t “shock their body”.

“They should avoid commercial iftars and suhoors, and adopt a healthy, simple diet. And, they must drink enough fluids during the non-fasting hours,” he pointed out.

“Never overload your body with carbohydrates, caffeine or sugar. It’s important to keep the diet modest and healthy,” added Dr Adil.

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