Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday 10 March and Muslim communities in Britain and around the world will soon be making plans to prepare for the month of fasting.
In addition to fasting during the Holy Month, Ramadan brings the opportunity for people to revisit routines and think about their health, as well as the well-being of others.
The British Islamic Medical Association, in partnership with the NHS, UK Health Security Agency, Legacy and Health Equity Partnership, and the London Muslim Health Network have produced a useful flyer with tips on how to have a healthy Ramadan.
This advice is particularly important for anyone who has diabetes, takes prescribed medicines or who needs a medical appointment during the holy month.
Try to eat well and avoid sugary, fatty and processed foods when breaking your fast. Stay hydrated before and after fasting by drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeinated drinks.
Keep a routine of regular, exercise like walking to stay active throughout the fasting period. This is a time for reflection so remember to take regular breaks to take time for yourself.
The British Islamic Medical Association advises that if you become unwell during Ramadan, you should stop fasting and seek medical advice.
You can do this by visiting 111.nhs.uk or your GP practice’s website. If you don’t have access to the internet, telephone 111 or your practice directly.
Looking after your mental health is as important as your physical health so if you are struggling with anxiety or depression, reach out to NHS Talking Therapies services – visit NHS.uk/talk. These services can provide interpreters and non- English resources and some therapists speak multiple languages.
Muslim Youth Helpline: male and female volunteers trained in basic counselling skills provide support at the point of crisis.
The Muslim Women’s Network: faith and culturally sensitive helpline that is confidential and non-judgmental, offering information, support, and guidance for those who are facing problems on a range of issues.
It’s important to continue taking your prescribed medicines during Ramadan. However, you will need to check with your doctor to see if the doses or the times you take them, need to be adjusted or changed.
If any of your patients with diabetes want to fast during Ramadan, please discuss with them the safest way of doing so, or encourage them to speak to their diabetes nurse. Diabetes UK has lots of advice on fasting and managing diabetes during Ramadan, including tips on healthy eating and a factsheet in English, Arabic, Bengali and Urdu.
If you have a medical appointment booked during Ramadan, please do attend. If you need to change the time of your appointment, please contact the relevant healthcare organisation to do so.
Some medical conditions and poor health give an exemption to fasting during Ramadan. If you have pre-existing health conditions and would like more information on whether you should fast, please consult your medical team ahead of Ramadan.
You can also refer to the British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA)’s Ramadan guidance
For more information visit the British Islamic Medical Association website
Ramadan Mubarak!
Download the Have a healthy Ramadan leaflet
