Ramadan Fasting Benefits for Health and Spirit

By Umairah Nasir | 03, Apr, 2024
Ramadan Fasting Benefits for Health and Spirit

O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful of Allah.

[Surah Al-Baqarah: Verse 183]

During Ramadan, a special time for Muslims, we connect with Allah (SWT) in a deep and meaningful way. But did you know that fasting during this month is not simply good for the soul? It is also great for your health! Let us explore how fasting during Ramadan can make you feel better, both inside and out.

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Losing Weight and Boosting Metabolism
Losing Weight

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We all know the temptation of a tasty treat, especially after a long day. But during Ramadan, we learn to control our cravings. This, along with eating less during fasting, can help you lose weight in a healthy way.

Studies show that fasting can speed up your metabolism, making your body burn fat for energy. It is like a shield against overeating. So, by resisting those urges, we not only cleanse our souls but also manage our weight, which is a big deal for health these days.

 

Keeping Your Heart Happy

Fasting is not just good for your spirit; it is good for your heart too! Research suggests that fasting can help control blood sugar and lower bad cholesterol levels, which are major factors contributing to heart disease. So, during Ramadan, not only are you getting closer to Allah SWT, but you are also giving your heart some love.

Reminiscent of a verse from the Quran that talks about how excessive preparation of food is not encouraged. By eating in moderation during Sahur and Iftar, we take care of our hearts too.

“O children of Adam! Wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer; eat and drink; but waste not by excess, for God loves not the wasters.”

[Surah Al-A’raf: Verse 31]

 

Cleansing Your Body

Our bodies deal with a lot of junk from the environment and the food we eat. Fasting might help with that! Studies show that fasting triggers enzymes in our bodies that clean out the junk from our cells. It is like a detox for your body. This ties in with the idea of Ramadan being a time for purification. As we say no to food and drink, our bodies get a chance to rest and rejuvenate.

 

Sharpening Your Mind
Rubik's Cube Sharp Mind

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Fasting does not just make your body feel good; it can make your mind sharper too! Research says that fasting helps grow new brain cells and makes your brain work better. So, those late-night prayers during Ramadan might not only keep you spiritually connected but also mentally sharp. By focusing on spirituality during Ramadan, we are also making our brains smarter too.

 

Renewing Your Cells

Having healthy cells is super important for feeling good overall. Fasting might help with that too! Studies suggest that fasting triggers a process where your body cleans out old cells and makes new ones. It is like a fresh start for your body. This ties in with the idea of Ramadan being a time for renewal. As we give up things we enjoy, our bodies get a chance to refresh themselves, just like our souls.

 

Important Things to Remember
Man performing Salah

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Make sure you eat healthy meals during Sahur and Iftar to give your body the nutrients it needs. The Prophet SAW always talked about moderation, even when fasting, as mentioned in this hadith.

Anas bin Malik narrated that:
The Messenger of Allah said: "Whoever has dried dates, then let him break the fast with that, and whoever does not, then let him break the fast with water, for indeed water is purifying."

[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 694]

 

So, choose healthy foods to make the most of your fasting.

Ultimately, fasting during Ramadan is not just about being close to Allah SWT; it is also about taking care of yourself. By embracing the spirit of Ramadan and making healthy choices, you can feel better in body and soul. Remember, true well-being means looking after both your physical and spiritual sides. As we feed our souls with prayer and devotion, let's also feed our bodies with good food, making Ramadan a time of all-around growth.

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