During the holy month of Ramadan, millions of Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset as an act of devotion and spiritual reflection. While the benefits of fasting for physical health are well documented, the effects of this practice can also be advantageous to Muslims’ mental health, experts in the United Arab Emirates have said.
Fasting can help anxiety, depression
Dr Nada Omer Mohamed Elbashir, a consultant psychiatrist at Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, said there is growing confidence today about the positive effects of fasting on mental health.
“Individuals that fast have experienced improvements in their symptoms of depression, anxiety and even stress,” she told Al Arabiya English. “They also reported decreased fatigue within the second week of fasting. This could be attributed to inducing ketone metabolism and its anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to lower stress levels.’
“Neurotransmitters are essential chemical components of the brain. They send signals that not only affects how we function, speak, and think but also how we feel. Many studies have shown that fasting can increase the level of serotonin in the blood, a neurotransmitter that has been strongly linked to depression and anxiety once it is depleted. Dopamine, another neurotransmitter that has been strongly linked to depression and psychosis, seems unchanged by fasting. However, further studies are taking place in the future that can perhaps prove otherwise.”
However, the doctor said is important to note that fasting during Ramadan is not recommended for individuals who are at risk for medical complications or those who have pre-existing mental health conditions. For those who are fasting, it is essential to monitor physical and mental health closely and seek professional help if necessary. Those who need medication to maintain their mental health should also consult a physician before the holy month.
“Medication intake and timings are essential, especially when therapeutic levels in the blood are desired,” she said. People with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia should be maintained with their medications as recommended.”
“Many people struggle with adjusting their medications during the daytime in Ramadan. It is recommended that the medication is taken in full prescribed dosage if fasting is chosen, but timings can be adjusted to Iftar or Suhoor. However, it is strongly advised to take your specialist’s opinion about medications if you choose to fast and alter the time.”
Read Full Story: alarabiya | republika.co | medcom | suarasurabaya | tempo.co
