It's Ramadhan and Lent has just ended. This annual fasting period requires Muslims and Christians around the globe to fast from dawn to sunset, abstain from certain physical needs and reflect on their spirituality.
Fasting is practised by numerous Christians and Muslims across the globe and is observed annually during Lent and Ramadhan, religious obligations that consciously or subconsciously improve the health of those who practice them.
Studies have shown that observing periods of restraint around food can have health benefits, whether you do it for religious reasons or not. In fact, fasting is favourable to the immune system because it reduces the amount of general inflammation that can occur in cells around the body.
Dr Amir Khan, in an article published by Al Jazeera, says fasting is thought to put the body into an “energy conservation mode” due to the lack of nutrients coming in. In an effort to save energy, the body recycles many of its old or damaged immune cells, which later promotes the generation of new, healthier immune cells when the fasting period ends. The new cells are quicker and more efficient at fighting infections thus improving overall immunity.
A meta-analysis done by PubMed and published under the National Library of Medicine on the effect of Ramadan fasting on metabolic changes and health outcomes in different groups of Muslim population reported that the total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein and blood glucose have been improved after Ramadhan compared to before Ramadhan among athletes.
As smoking is forbidden during Ramadhan and Lent, studies have additionally revealed a significant reduction in second-hand smoke levels in public places that might be related to mortality and morbidity.
Further research has proven that fasting can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is particularly beneficial for those with diabetes. By eating only during designated times, individuals with diabetes can more easily monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their medication accordingly.
By not consuming any food, our body is able to concentrate on removing toxins, as we give the digestive system a rest. Nutritionist Claire Mahy is quoted in Al Jazeera as saying: “Fasting allows the gut to cleanse and strengthens its lining. It can also stimulate a process called autophagy, which is where cells self-cleanse and remove damaged and dangerous particles.”
Scientists have also been studying the linkage between diet, gut health and mental well-being and fasting has proven to have positive effects on mental health. The act of fasting can help individuals practice mindfulness and increase their self-discipline. Some studies found that short-term fasting can cause mood enhancement, which is reflected by increased positive mood and vitality and decreased negative mood.
With the immense benefits that come with fasting, I challenge us all to be intentional about healthy living, not just during religious fasting seasons, but by ensuring that we incorporate fasting and food discipline into our everyday lifestyle.
Kenya’s Ministry of Health under the Kenya Community Health Strategy 2020-2025 mission is committed to empowering people to live healthy lives through transformative, responsive and sustainable community health services in Kenya, using the primary health care approach.
The ministry will achieve this through partnerships with communities on capacity-building programmes based on healthy living, policy formulation and programme implementation.
The many benefits of healthy living stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cannot be over-emphasised; from boosting immunity, helping the digestive system function, lowering the risk of certain diseases and helping achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Even as Muslims continue to fast, it must be remembered that individuals with compromised health or those who are being followed by a physician for any health conditions should consult a doctor before trying it in order to be monitored for some of the side effects.
Fasting requires deep concentration and reflection, and as such, it may be difficult at times to juggle between having that quiet and alone moment and having to deliver especially if one is in the service industry like health.
Working in a medical facility anywhere in the world comes with its own challenges, from long working hours to psychological stress and patient burden. It must be overwhelming for the medical practitioners who are observing Ramadhan. Focusing on your own physical, mental and spiritual space while having to attend to others may not come easily.
In this regard, I salute and commend all medical personnel who despite fasting, still put in long hours to ensure service delivery remains seamless. I celebrate and honour you.
Cabinet secretary, Ministry of Health. [email protected]
