Ramadan, the month of Blessings, is here again. This is the month where Muslims are prescribed to fast from dawn to dusk. The blessings and benefits of Ramadan are too many to be counted. The main reason that Muslims fast is because it helps them grow spiritually.
Other than spiritual benefits, fasting also has many physical and mental advantages. In other words, there are not just spiritual gains to be had, but also numerous health benefits of Ramadan.
There are various health benefits associated with fasting. The International Congress on Health and Ramadan, held in Casablanca in 1994, covered 50 studies on the medical ethics of Ramadan and noted various improvements in the health conditions of those who fast.
But it was not that there we no negative effects noted. Some people end up eating a lot during Suhoor with the thought in mind that they won’t be eating or drinking anything till dusk. And some people end up eating a lot during Iftar with the thought that haven’t eaten anything for the whole day. This, obviously, is an incorrect practice.
This article will take a look at some of the major advantages and health benefits of Ramadan.5 Major Health Benefits of Ramadan
1. Improves Blood Fat Levels
In Ramadan, people tend to go for healthier options such as dates, lentil soup, and home cooked meals. Studies have noted that overall saturated fat consumption, usually found in butter, lard, fatty meat, and fast food, is reduced in Ramadan as people want to stay active for the day and not feel too tired or sleepy. In addition, the night prayers may provide an adequate level of physical activity equivalent to moderate physical activity which, for some, may be more than they usually exercise.
2. Rests Digestive System
During fasting, the digestive organs rest. The normal physiological functions continue, such production of digestive secretions, but at reduced rates. This exercise helps to maintain balance of fluids in the body.
3. Helps Overcome Addictions
Addictions can come in all shapes and forms and Ramadan provides an excellent opportunity to ditch them. Ramadan teaches us self-restraint which helps us overcome our excessive cravings, especially addictions such as smoking and other unhealthy habits.
4. Puts a Healthy Mind into a Healthy Body
During fasting, there is increased secretion of the growth hormone by the pituitary gland. It is an anabolic hormone for synthesis of proteins and collagen, which produces a positive nitrogen balance.
5. Promotes Fat Breakdown and Weight Loss
Calorie consumption is overall decreased in Ramadan. Of course if you are a heavy eater, that’s not going to happen. However, if you maintain your usual eating habits, you are very likely to eat less amounts of food and lose weight. This is especially true in Ramadan, when your source of energy during your fast is mainly fat.
Last but not the least, Ramadan provides tranquility of the heart and mind. There is intense spiritual meaning to Ramadan for those who fast. Muslims practise generosity by being charitable, family-bonding by gathering together for Iftar, spirituality by praying, and self-control by practising good manners. All these habits build a feeling of peace, tranquility and self-satisfaction.
Wanna get the most out of Ramadan? Why not grab our free eBook 25 Blessed Dua From The Quran ? It features a collection of 25 Dua from The Holy Quran itself, that you can memorize and recite to earn the Mercy of Allah SWT. Here is the link (PDF): Free eBook: 25 Blessed Dua From The Quran.
