Fasting during Ramadan has numerous health benefits in addition to observing one's religious and spiritual obligations. Fasting in Ramadan highlights how giving your body a break from eating can lead you to being healthy. By approaching fasting with mindfulness and intention, both physical and spiritual benefits can be attained in this holy month. So, let's take a look at the top 5 health benefits of fasting during Ramadan.
Increase in immunity
Our immunity system gets a massive boost from fasting. The decrease in inflammation and oxidative stress reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases the production of antioxidants, which helps fight off illness and disease. According to nutritionists, fasting strengthens the lining of the intestines and enables cleansing. Moreover, it can promote autophagy, a mechanism through which cells purge themselves of harmful and damaged components.
Helping with insulin sensitivity
Insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, can occur when the body's cells stop responding to insulin. Fasting during Ramadan can help improve your insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
By relying on stored glucose for energy during fasting, your body's glucose levels decrease, leading to better glucose control and insulin sensitivity.
According to one scientific study, fasting during Ramadan has positive consequences, increasing insulin sensitivity and lowering insulin resistance, as shown by the impact of fasting on metabolic markers in humans.
Promotes weight loss
Fasting is a great way to achieve weight loss. By controlling portion sizes and reducing calorie intake, individuals can lose weight and reduce body fat during Ramadan. However, it is essential to resist the temptation to overindulge during non-fasting hours to prevent the reversal of the benefits achieved.
It is important to maintain healthy eating habits and exercise during the non-fasting hours to achieve long-lasting weight loss results. Fasting during Ramadan provides an opportunity for individuals to reset their eating habits and develop healthier relationships with food.
Good for cardiac health
Fasting during Ramadan can have a significant impact on heart health. It reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which helps to lower inflammation and improve blood flow. This reduction in risk factors can lead to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. However, individuals with pre-existing heart conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before beginning to fast, so that they can observe fasting as their health will permit.
Improves brain function
One of the most remarkable benefits is the improvement in cognitive performance and brain function. During Ramadan, the production of brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) increases significantly. BDNF is a protein that supports the growth and survival of brain cells, and its increased production enhances memory, learning, and mental clarity. Scientists have also been investigating the link between diet, gut health, and mental well-being, and BDNF plays a crucial role in this connection. Thus, fasting during Ramadan has a positive impact not only on spiritual health but also on mental health.
his week will see the start of Ramadan for more than a billion Muslims worldwide. In some parts of the world, including China’s Xinjiang region, the authorities will suppress people’s attempts to practice their faith. Now is a crucial time to come together and build understanding between all our communities. So for those who don’t know much about Islam’s holiest month, here are some quick facts:
1. During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast every day from sunrise to sunset. Young children, women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or on their periods, the elderly, and people with health problems, aren’t expected to fast.
2. For many, Ramadan is a time to feel closer to God, pray, spend time with loved ones, support charities and remember those less fortunate while they’re fasting.
3. By the end of Ramadan, adults who have more food than they need must pay Zakat al-Fitr – a contribution to support people in need of approximately £5/US$7 per head.
4. Ramadan begins during the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, when the new crescent moon can first be seen.
5. Muslims consider fasting in Ramadhan a core part of their religious beliefs. Before dawn, people eat a meal called the suhoor. The dusk meal is called the iftar.
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