6 tips on fasting safely this summer

Dubai: Ramadan coinciding with the summer can be a challenge for most.

Even though residents face shorter working hours, the levels of humidity, the scorching sun and the overworked air conditions ultimately all take a toll on people who are fasting. 

Experts, however, are advising residents to take a few extra precautions this Ramadan to ensure that they are fasting safely this summer.

Dr Issam Badaoui, Medical Director at International SOS – a medical and travel security risk services company – says that regardless of the time of year, people who are fasting should always have a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get sufficient rest.

“The medical advice for most adults is to drink at least three litres of water during each 24-hour period. People should be careful to avoid low blood sugar and dehydration, particularly for those fasting in warmer climates,” said Dr Badaoui.

He pointed out that those fasting should also drink sufficient water between Iftar and Imsak.

“Ramadan is also a time of moderation. It is a time when people can really focus on the food they eat and their lifestyle choices.

“It is also a good time to quit habits that could harm your health, like smoking, and adopt beneficial lifestyle changes such as preparing healthier homemade meals,” he said.

Dr Badaoui expects fewer non-fasters living in Muslim-majority countries to take holidays during Ramadan than in recent years, as children will be in school. This means that being respectful to those fasting will be even more important.

“Non-Muslims should refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours, and they will want to be respectful and understanding of colleagues and friends who are observing the fast,” said Dr Badaoui.

The longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, June 21, is again during Ramadan this year.

Daylight hours on June 21 will be 16 hours 38 minutes in London, 13 hours 28 minutes in Dubai and 12 hours 16 minutes in Kuala Lumpur.

Tips for a healthy Ramadan:

1. Eat moderately at Iftar, and make sure to eat Suhoor.

2. Get eight hours of sleep during every 24 hour period.

3. Wait two to three hours after Iftar before exercising, and focus on lighter activities like brisk walking.

4. Consult your doctor on how to manage medications and chronic illnesses such as diabetes.

5. Try to conduct more difficult work tasks earlier in the day.

6. Be extra cautious on the road, particularly in the hours before sunset.

Ramadan etiquette points for non-Muslims:

1. Restrict the consumption of food, beverages and cigarettes during daylight hours to private spaces or clearly designated areas.

2. Dress modestly, and be mindful of workplace etiquette. Book meetings early in the day and be respectful of fasting colleagues.

3. Expect restaurants and entertainment venues to change their timings and offerings.

Source: International SOS