The celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr comes after the holy month of Ramadan, which is observed for 30 days every year by many Muslims worldwide. Muslims are required to fast from sunrise to sunset throughout the month of Ramadan and refrain from consuming food, beverages, engaging in sexual activity (except with a married partner), and doing anything that is deemed "Haram" or contrary to fundamental Islamic beliefs.
Beyond losing a few pounds and quitting unhealthy behaviours like smoking, Muslims will experience several health advantages during and after Ramadan.
A time of partial or total abstinence from all foods or just some foods is known as fasting. Fasting can be incorporated into a diet plan for religious or weight loss purposes.
Also, the secret to living a long, healthy life may lie in fasting. According to numerous studies, those who regularly fast during the follow-up period have a mortality rate that is nearly 45% lower than people who do not fast.
The majority of research on fasting has been done on those who observe fasts for religious purposes. According to certain theories, fasting can have the following health advantages when done correctly. Continue reading to find out more!
Know Why Fasting Is Good For Body: 5 Reasons
1. Weight Loss and Better Body Composition
Fasting during Ramadan has been shown to significantly reduce body fat and improve body composition. According to a number of studies, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body fat percentage can all be decreased by fasting throughout Ramadan. These modifications are linked to an increase in physical activity and a reduction in calorie consumption during the fasting period.
2. Aids In Blood Sugar Control
Studies have indicated that Ramadan fasting helps diabetics better regulate their blood sugar levels. Research has indicated that observing fasting during the month of Ramadan may lead to a decrease in insulin resistance, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and fasting blood glucose levels. Reductions in caloric intake, adjustments to hormone levels, and enhancements in insulin sensitivity are the reasons for these modifications.
Read More: What To Eat And Avoid During Ramadan Fasting
3. Helps With Cardiovascular Health
Research has indicated that observing a fast during Ramadan lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation, all of which contribute to better cardiovascular health. Research has indicated that abstaining from food throughout the month of Ramadan may result in a reduction of blood pressure's systolic and diastolic values, as well as total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Reduced oxidative stress, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and adjustments to the concentrations of various hormones and cytokines are the reasons for these modifications.
4. Maintains Good Mental Health
It has been demonstrated that fasting during Ramadan improves mental health, particularly by lowering anxiety and depressive symptoms. Ramadan fasting was linked to better mental health ratings and fewer signs of worry and sadness, according to a Malaysian study. The social support and communal involvement that occur throughout Ramadan, along with the observance's spiritual and contemplative essence, are credited with these developments.
5. Improved Immune Response
It has been demonstrated that fasting during Ramadan improves immune response, particularly by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation. According to a study done in Jordan, there was a correlation between a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines during the Ramadan fast. The reduction in caloric intake and the possible function of fasting in initiating cellular repair mechanisms are credited with these modifications.
Numerous academic references backup these advantages, suggesting that Ramadan fasting has the potential to be a lifestyle intervention that enhances general health. It's crucial to remember that not everyone should fast throughout Ramadan, especially if they have certain medical issues. Thus, before beginning any fasting programme, including the Ramadan fast, people should speak with their healthcare professional.