The Health Benefits of Fasting

Our bodies go through an incredible transformation during Ramadan. Keep scrolling to discover how.

Watch our video to learn how the body purifies itself over 30 days. Be inspired by the wonderful way Allah (SWT) created our physical form and gave us a perfect way to care for it during the month of blessings.

30-Day Fast: What happens to our bodies during Ramadan?

Detoxification Stage 1: Day 1-2

Stage 1 of detoxification begins on the first day of fasting, typically the hardest day as the body adjusts to a new routine. We enter the fasting state approximately 8 to 12 hours after our last meal. During this stage, the gut finishes absorbing the remaining nutrients from our food intake. Our blood sugar drops, our heart slows down and our blood pressure reduces.

Common side-effects in these first few days include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness and nausea
• Bad breath and a heavily coated tongue
• Weakness caused by the drawing of glycogen from our muscles

Detoxification Stage 2: Days 3-7

During the first week of fasting, we begin to feel sluggish and tired. This is because the body has to work harder than usual.

Without food for energy, the body uses up the glucose stored in our liver and muscles. Once the glucose is depleted, fat is broken down to release glycerol, which is then converted into glucose. We may notice that our skin is oilier than usual, resulting in spots or even a boil. This is due to the purging of rancid oils.

As the body adapts to fasting, our digestive system gets a much-needed rest, allowing it to cleanse and repair itself. Faeces stuck to the intestinal walls start to loosen. Our lungs and other cleansing organs begin their own process of healing, and our immune system becomes more active than normal.

We may find that an added benefit of using fat for fuel is weight loss and reduced cholesterol over time. Weight loss can also have positive effects on diabetes and blood pressure, providing better control of both conditions.

Detoxification Stage 3: Days 8-15

During the second week of fasting, we begin to experience mental clarity and a boost of energy. But don’t be surprised if old wounds and injuries become irritated!

As the body continues to self-repair, it releases white blood cells called lymphocytes to dissolve any damaged cells in the tissue. In some cases, this can irritate the nerves in the area and result in aches.

The discomfort we feel is a sign of recovery, as old scars that may have healed badly in the past, perhaps due to a poor lifestyle, are now undergoing optimum healing. Muscles may also become tight or sore due to toxin irritation, and mouth ulcers may also make an appearance. To avoid or heal mouth ulcers, gargle with salt and water daily.

Detoxification Stage 4: Days 16-30

The final stage of detoxification happens in the last two weeks of fasting. This is when we feel our best. There will be short periods of cleansing among many good days where we have lots of energy. We find our breath is fresher and our tongue is pink.

The body has now attuned to fasting and is completing the regenerative process. After day 20, even the mind is functioning better as higher levels of endorphins appear in the blood. We notice increased alertness and an overall feeling of well-being along with:

• Heightened clarity
• Emotional balance
• Improved memory
• Improved concentration

Not Able to Fast this Ramadan?

Modern science is gradually recognising the benefits of fasting. For those of us who observe Ramadan each year, the uptick in fasting does not come as a surprise. However, not everyone is able to join the fast at Ramadan.

If we are unable to fast this year and unable to make up the missed fasts, we are required to pay a compensation called Fidyah or Kaffarah. We use this to feed patients in need at Shaukat Khanum Hospitals. We also accept Fitrana donations, which every Muslim pays at the end of Ramadan. As these are time-sensitive, please be sure to pay yours before Eid.