Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic year. It is believed that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this holy month. Each year, millions of Muslims practice daily fasting, and refrain from eating or drinking from sunrise (Suhour) to sunset (Iftar). With that in mind, let us explore the good as well as not-so-good facts about fasting.
Why do Muslims fast?
Ramadan fasting is obligatory for the healthy adult. The intention of fasting for Muslims during Ramadan is to learn self-control from indulgence in everyday pleasures, for self-discipline, to strengthen spiritual bond with the Almighty, to purify the body as well as soul and to empathize with the less fortunate.
What are the Pros of fasting?
Muslims do not fast due to medical benefits that are of a secondary nature
. However, it is good to know the spiritual as well as medical advantages of fasting during Ramadan.
A. Psychological Benefits
When fasting, Muslims are also obligated to abstain from falsehood in speech and action, from any ignorant and indecent behaviour, and from arguing, fighting, and having lustful thoughts. As a result, fasting strengthens control of impulses and helps develop good behaviour. Along with regular prayer, this purification of body and soul harmonizes the inner and outer spheres of an individual. According to the findings of a research article, it was discovered that fasting individuals feel more at peace and tranquil during this period of self-reflection and self-restraint.
B. Physical Benefits
It is scientifically proven that intermittent fasting can be beneficial for health and mind. When a person stays away from constant eating, nibbling and drinking fluids, it gradually reduces the appetite. This leads to weight loss and reduction of cholesterol in the blood. Moreover, any kind of addiction is curbed as the body gets a chance to detoxify the digestive system. By fasting for the whole day and eating at night, the metabolism becomes more efficient with the advent of Adiponectin – a protein hormone that allows muscles to absorb more nutrients. According to the leading website Life Apps, the mental focus achieved during Ramadan raises the level of brain derived neurotrophic factors which in turn causes the body to produce more brain cells and improve brain function.
What are the Cons of fasting?
After a period of fasting, research shows people tend to crave starchier foods, with higher calorie content. This can reverse the intended effects of a weight management plan. Some short-term side effects include headaches, dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, low blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. It is argued that fasting may impair the body’s ability to absorb certain medications and interfere with everyday vital bodily functions. Abstaining from eating could also be risky for individuals who are already malnourished, for example, cancer patients. Eventually, the effects of abstaining from food varies largely based on the individual who is fasting.
Eat dates during Ramadan for instant energy
One of the most important aspects of fasting is getting the right amount of energy. Traditionally eaten to break the fast for spiritual reasons, dates bring multiple health benefits and help in boosting energy after a daylong fast. Bateel’s organic dates are powerhouses of nutrients and vitamins. In addition to good carbs, high levels of potassium, magnesium and B vitamins can be found in Bateel filled dates as well. Ensuring its organic ethos, Bateel grows gourmet dates in their natural environment. Hence, Bateel dates retain original flavour and nutritional properties.
