Rawalpindi : Medical science has proved that Islamic fasting has great physical, psychological and spiritual benefits for healthy persons though to get the maximum benefits, one needs to opt for a proper dietary plan particularly when going for a month-long fasting in the holy month of Ramazan.
Studies reveal that fasting triggers a metabolic switch from glucose to fat burning that is beneficial for weight loss and as well helps reduce inflammation and improves heart health.
Fasting lowers blood sugar and cholesterol in the blood and regulates the process of metabolism. Fasting is also beneficial for brain health as it may boost cognitive function, enhance memory and can provide a significant protection against neurodegenerative diseases.
Fasting regulates all functions of the body and normalises working of all organs and body systems in a healthy person. Health experts believe that Islamic fasting by a healthy person, in no way, harms any function of the body, though the bad dietary habits and carelessness during Ramazan may harm functioning of various body systems.
The consumption of heavy quantities of sugary drinks and spicy dishes at the time of ‘Sehar’ or ‘Iftar’ may prove to be injurious to health by putting extra burden on stomach and other body systems. Fasting improves the process of decomposition and elimination of waste toxic materials in the body if a balanced diet is taken.
To keep working of the stomach ideal, one should take food that is high in fibre. Fasting is a natural way to normalise body weight and control obesity. Fasting among healthy persons regulates the digestive system.
Studies also reveal that fasting can help cure cardiovascular and circulatory diseases, diseases of the digestive system, diseases of the locomotor system, including rheumatism, respiratory system diseases including asthma, and the early stages of malignant cancer but to get these benefits, one must take balanced diet while opting for fasting in Ramazan.
Fasting gives a proper rest to the stomach, intestines and colon enabling the systems to repair damaged structures. Piles, inflammation of colon and stomach etc. speedily recover under the fast. The alimentary tract becomes practically free of bacteria during the fast and the small intestine becomes sterile.
Fasting also helps maintain self-discipline and managing anger while convincing one to think seriously of taking steps to improve self-management. Fasting can help break addictions to harmful substances like tobacco, drugs, alcohol, tea, coffee and other habit-forming beverages.
Health experts, however, suggest that the best thing for chronic patients is to have advice from their physicians before opting for a month-long fasting in Ramazan.
