3 tips to fast safely during Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan began today, with Muslims across B.C. joining millions of their brethrenaround the world byfasting from dawn until duskand observingother religious rituals.

Ramadan is set on the lunar calendar, meaning the dates change from year to year. And this year, the month of Ramadan coincides once again with the summer solstice and the longest days of the year.

That means those observing Ramadan will have to fast for up to 19 hours a day.

"What'simportantis that when an individualis fasting for that length of time, that they takeappropriateprecautions," said Dr. Akber Mithani, ageneral practitioner with Fraser Health.

"It's important overall that they're prepared for this holymonth ofRamadanin such a way that they'reableto carry out the rituals in anappropriateway,butthatthey'rephysicallyable to also carry out the worship and thespiritualitythat goeswith [it]."

Here are his tipsfor safe fasting during Ramadan.

1. So long, samosas.

Stay clear of deep-fried and sugary foods, says Mithani,including sugary beverages and fruit juices.

"What youdon't want the sugar levels to do ispeak veryprecipitouslyinitially," he said. "Then they tend to drop veryprecipitously, andthathas a huge impact on theperson's health."

Instead, choose foods like complex carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats to sustain you forthe long-term.

2. Smaller, more frequent meals

Not only is what you eat important, says Mithani, but also how often you do so.

Mithanisays people fasting duringRamadantry to eat meals the same way they usually do, but it's better to change those habits while fasting for long periods.

"They need to eat smaller amounts, but more frequently," he said. "And they need to make sure that they have an adequatesupply of vegetables and fruits."

3. Medical issues? Consult a doctor

People with medical issues like high-blood pressure and diabetes can take part in Ramadan, but Mithanisays they should consult with a physician first.

Mithanisaid a family doctor may recommend different doses of medications, and altering them sometimes ahead of the fasting period to prepare.

"For most of the people, they will be able to fast in a very safe and effective way and they'll be able to get the spiritual, social benefits of fasting in this holymonth of Ramadan," Mithanisaid.

High-risk patients with significant medical issues aren't required to fast, but Mithanisays he consults with those who insist on doing so anywayto ensure their health isn't at risk.