During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink every day from sunrise to sunset. Fasting in Islam is an act of worship that enhances one's spiritual growth as well as closer relationship with God.
Fasting is also a way to practice self-control and self-restraint and to show compassion for those in need. Also, breaking the fast as the sun sets each day actually becomes a moment of gratitude, reflection and unity.
This act of self-discipline not only serves as a means of purifying the soul and strengthening the connection with the Creator, it also has a profound effect on the body. Experts in gastroenterology, cardiology and endocrinology say that fasting during Ramadan can positively affect physical health.
Fasting is beneficial for the human body to improve digestion, increase metabolism and lose weight. Besides, fasting detoxifies and rejuvenates the body. As a result, the human body gains new vitality.
Gastroenterologists point out that fasting can promote healthy digestive processes in the human body by taking a break from routine or repetitive digestive processes. This allows it to heal and regulate itself.
Breaking the fast with dates during Ramadan is in line with Islamic customs and is considered spiritually significant, as the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) used to do.
Dates are a good source of nutrients including carbohydrates, fiber, sugar, magnesium and potassium. Eating dates causes a quick rise in blood sugar levels and the high carbohydrate content in dates helps the body feel refreshed.
According to Cleveland Clinic Hospital, most gastrointestinal diseases and conditions can be treated or prevented. These include irritable bowel syndrome which causes bloating, painful abdominal pain, constipation and sometimes diarrhea. Other examples are gallstones, pancreatitis, hepatitis and malabsorption syndrome.
Dr. Adeeb al-Ghaleini told Arab News that fasting for a month has a remarkable effect on the gastrointestinal system for those suffering from chronic conditions or those who want to improve their gut health.
Adeeb Al-Ghaleini is the Head of the Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, a Consultant in Gastroenterology and Therapeutic Endoscopy and the Fellowship Program Director at Jeddah International Medical Center or IMC.
He said that people should follow healthy, clean and light food habits to get the benefits of fasting in Ramadan. And in doing so, it allows the body to detoxify and boost the immune system against bacteria and viruses that have accumulated over the years in the gastrointestinal system.
On the other hand, cardiologists have found that fasting can improve heart health. Dr. "Fasting has several positive effects on cardiovascular risk factors, such as lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, improving insulin sensitivity and weight loss," says Seraj Abulnaza. And it can also reduce the risk of cardiac ailments like heart attack or stroke in the future.