Medical expert, Bolaji Salako, has urged those fasting to prioritize their health and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy fasting experience.
Salako, a consultant radiation and clinical oncologist at the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta, made the urge during a recent interview in Ibadan.
According to him, fasting during Ramadan can trigger certain health risks, especially if not done with proper care.
He said dehydration was one of the major concerns, particularly in regions with hot climates.
He said: “Not drinking water for long hours can lead to dehydration, which can result in fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and even more serious complications like kidney challenges if not addressed.
“It is crucial for fasting individuals to stay hydrated during non-fasting hours.”
He stated that another concern was nutritional deficiencies as fasting involved abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours, which sometimes can lead to imbalances in nutrient intake.
He urged those fasting to eat balanced diets during non-fasting hours, that is, at the start or at breaking of the fast. He said eating diets that are not balanced could lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals if not properly managed.
He said: “Additionally, fasting can affect blood sugar levels, especially for individuals with diabetes. It is important for those with diabetes and other diseases like hypertension and cancer to work closely with their medical doctors to adjust their medication schedules and monitor their health conditions carefully during Ramadan.”
He concluded by saying while fasting can have spiritual benefits, individuals need to prioritize their health and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy fasting experience.
