As we start the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims around the globe fast all month long from dawn to dusk and refrain from eating food, drinking, sexual activity, and acts of wrongful behavior during this period. Ramadan provides for multiple physical and psychological benefits for the mind, body and soul. I’ve mentioned a few health-related ones below:
- month-long detox
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This four-week period acts as a great way to detox your body’s digestive system from eating or drinking all day long. Fasting can provide for a cleanse of toxins, excess mucus, and food wastes.
- lowers cholesterol & blood pressure
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Cardiologists in the UAE have found that people taking part in fasting during Ramadan had an improvement in their lipid profile, indicating a lowered cholesterol in the body. Fasting improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, or a heart attack. It can aid in temporarily lowering blood pressure as well.
- brain power!
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Studies have found that the mental focus reached during Ramadan can boost brain power and increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor that causes more brain cell production and enhances brain function.
- aids in weight loss
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When done properly, fasting can aid in weight loss throughout the month. After breaking fast, if you’re steering away from huge meals and fried foods, you can count on losing weight this Ramadan. It’s also good to stay active in a healthy way as well as to eat right to advance your results.
- appetite reduction
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Fasting in a day without food or drink for a month can greatly reduce one’s appetite in the possible long run. When you fast over time fasting, your stomach shrinks gradually and one’s need for food reduces.
- lower stress and anxiety
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Fasting has also been shown in improving and lessening stress, depression, and anxiety. Studies have shown the release of endorphins also known as the “happiness hormone” after fasting for days. Fasting can impact your mood positively as dopamine and serotonin levels increase as you fast in the month of Ramadan.