..And it is better for you that you fast, if you only knew."
(Q 2:184)
Fasting is one of the unique and spiritual characteristics of Islam. Fasting is called siyam in the Qur'an. The word siyam literally means "to abstain". By Islamic way of definition fasting is; Abstinence from food, drink and intercourse or all sensuous pleasures from dawn to dusk. It is even stretched to include; 'zipping' one's mouth from backbiting, gossiping as well as talking in an immoral manner.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that fasting is a shield. It protects a person from sin, lustful desires and many other medical complications. Medical science has proved that fasting, particularly in Ramadan is one of the best ways to keep oneself healthy and to get rid of various diseases and impediments.
All the Muslims observe fasting as a religious obligation but only few know the health benefits it has. Here are some health benefits which can derive from fasting.
1. Fasting boosts immunity
2. Fasting reduces cancer risk
3. Fasting promotes weight loss
4. Fasting reduces blood cholesterol level
5. Fasting corrects high blood pressure
6. Fasting clears the skin and whitens the eyes
7. Fasting helps in a better control of diabetes
8. Fasting helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis
9. Fasting quiets allergic reactions, like asthma
10. Fasting promotes voluntary control of mind and body.
11. Fasting promotes detoxification and purification of brain.
12. Fasting restores taste appreciation for healthy natural foods.
13. Fasting reduces blood sugar and increase general fat breakdown.
14. Fasting slows down our natural aging process and keeps us young and energetic.
15. Fasting promotes the drying up of abnormal fluid accumulations, such as edema.
16. Fasting rests digestive system, giving the tract a much-needed rest to remain healthy.
17. Fasting makes it easy to overcome bad habits and addictions. Many people have overcome tobacco and alcohol addictions by fasting, and even drug addictions.
18. Fasting promotes the resolution of inflammatory processes, such as in rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis and skin diseases such as psoriasis.
Some Health Tips
Don’t miss to take sahur (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (break-fast) Take short naps Do light exercise like walking Avoid over eating but eat healthy Avoid fried and fatty food Avoid taking soft drinks and drinks containing too much sugar Try to drink 7-8 glass of water from iftar to sahur Avoid over burden and stressful work In the nutshell, it is the sacred true that "Fast and you will be healed (or cured)” from all the sickness of body and soul. May Allah accept everyone’s fasting in this blessed and joyous month of Ramadan. AmenWritten by: Samraiz Mughal , DPT, Government College University Faisalabad.
