NewzVille Desk
The Holy month of Ramadan is going on and around 1.5 billion Muslims around the world are celebrating with faith and devotion. There is a question arises if at all Ramadan fasting does have any medical benefits? More interesting quistion is ‘How does it compare to intermittent fasting and what happens in the body during 15 hours without food?
Dr. Sheriff Hassan, a professor of internal medicine at the University of California Riverside School of Medicine explains about the long fasting.
He says, Fasting during Ramadan is physiologically similar to time-restricted eating, as both shift the body from glucose to fat use after 12–16 hours. The key difference is that Ramadan prohibits fluids during daylight hours, increasing dehydration risk. Sleep pattern changes during Ramadan can also influence metabolic outcomes.’
Dr. Hassan explains that after glycogen stores decline, insulin falls and the body increases fat breakdown and mild ketone production. Growth hormones rise and insulin sensitivity may improve temporarily. Energy shifts from glucose dependence to greater fat utilization.
“Short-term improvements in glucose, insulin sensitivity, triglycerides, and HDL are commonly observed. Effects depend heavily on diet quality and calorie intake during eating windows. Benefits often reverse if prior eating habits resume”, he adds.
How Effective in GenderÂ
About men and women pattern he says that women may be more hormonally sensitive to prolonged calorie restriction, particularly if underweight or stressed. Some may experience menstrual irregularities with aggressive fasting. Healthy men and women generally tolerate Ramadan well, but individual variability is significant.
For Different Patients
According to Dr. Sheriff Hassan, “People with type 2 diabetes can fast safely only if well controlled and medically supervised. Medication timing must be adjusted and glucose monitored closely. High-risk patients (those with poor diabetes control, insulin dependence, or kidney disease) are usually advised not to fast.”
Modest reductions in blood pressure and improvements in lipid markers are often seen. Weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity likely drive these effects. Dehydration, however, can cause dizziness or blood pressure fluctuations.
Those with uncontrolled diabetes, advanced kidney or heart disease, severe liver disease, eating disorders, or acute illness should not fast without medical clearance. High risk of hypoglycemia or dehydration is a major contraindication. Medical harm outweighs potential benefits in these groups.
Weight-loss
Weight loss during Ramadan is typically modest and often temporary. Long-term success depends on sustained calorie control and healthy food choices. Fasting itself is a tool, not a guarantee of fat loss.
CardiacÂ
Stable cardiac patients may fast safely with physician guidance. Those with advanced heart failure, unstable angina, or significant arrhythmias face higher risks from dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Individual risk assessment is essential.
Mental Focus
Some people report improved alertness due to mild ketosis and catecholamine increases. Others experience fatigue or reduced concentration, especially with dehydration or poor sleep. Cognitive response varies widely by individual.
Exercise
Light to moderate exercise is generally safe, especially near or after breaking the fast. Intense training during prolonged dehydration increases risk of heat illness and fatigue. Athletes should optimize nighttime hydration and adjust training loads.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are generally advised not to fast. Breastfeeding may be affected by hydration and calorie intake. Frail elderly individuals are at higher risk of dehydration, falls, and kidney stress.
Positive Takes
Evidence shows short-term metabolic improvements but limited proof of lasting change without continued lifestyle modification. No strong evidence suggests harm in healthy adults. Long-term benefits depend on sustained healthy behaviors.
Overweight individuals and those with mild insulin resistance often see the most metabolic improvement. People who improve diet quality during Ramadan benefit more than those who overconsume high-calorie foods. Lean, metabolically healthy individuals may see minimal measurable change.
