How to avoid burnout as month of fasting approaches its climax

Dubai: Fasting Muslims need to hedge against burnout by pacing themselves properly, as the Islamic month of fasting approaches its climax, health experts suggest.

Muslims spend hours standing in prayers held during the wee hours of the last 10 days of Ramadan. They also read more of the Quran, while many stay up all night to worship in mosques.

However, spells of poor eating after ending the fast at sunset or not getting enough daytime rest can make both worship and work overbearing, doctors warned.

Dubai physician Dr Abdul Halim said people should eat lightly but more frequently at night and nap after work (office hours are slashed by around two hours during Ramadan in the UAE).

He added that having enough water, fruits and juice is especially important because they are refreshing and energising.

Don't abuse your body

"If you're too full, you'll feel lazy. And if you don't take breaks, you'll burn out. Otherwise, there's no focus at work or in prayer," Dr Halim said.

"We shouldn't abuse ourselves; it's important to stick to a healthy regime. There should be a constant, slow rise in energy levels."

Dr Fouziya Ayyub, a health specialist, said residents should try to avoid non-vegetarian food and keep off oily and spicy meals. She also suggested taking salads without sugar or salt.

"What you eat can even affect your mood, so you must look after your diet. It has a big role to play in these last few days of Ramadan," Dr Ayyub said.

There are now four or five days left in Ramadan, which lasts 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.

Dr Ayyub added that sleeping for two or three hours after the dawn prayer, then taking an afternoon nap after work and finally catching up on sleep between the night and pre-dawn prayers are ideal for most people.

Tips for ramadan

• Take smaller meals, but eat more frequently
• Take naps to save energy for long late-night prayers
• Drink plenty of water after iftar
• Cut down on tea, coffee and fizzy soft drinks