In Islam, Ramadan is a sacred month that Muslims have used as a period of deep reflection. Muslims will fast 30 days of Ramadan from Fajr to night, seek strength and demonstrate the great purpose of being close to God. Fasting during Ramadan is an important way for Muslims to build their confidence, self-control and empathy for the less fortunate. If you are pregnant, you may be worried that fasting will affect your health or the strength of the baby in your womb. Is it true that you think about fulfilling your hard work while ensuring your well-being? In this article, we will discuss Islamic views on fasting during pregnancy, the consequences of fasting during pregnancy, and tips on how to fast safely.
If you decide to fast during pregnancy, you may be wondering how to do it safely. At Homeage, we have five tips to help you protect yourself and your baby quickly and safely.
Never skip meals before sunrise
Some people may skip light meals before Ramadan, which is called sehri, to get more rest before the day starts. However, skipping this meal can make you feel sluggish for the rest of the day due to lack of energy. The supplements you take in the morning will help you gain more energy if you choose to stay in bed. Make sure you eat during sehri to avoid lean and dry so that you can break your fast in the afternoon.
Try to avoid dehydration
Dryness is not a trivial matter to be considered during pregnancy. Pregnant women need more water than average because they need water to form the placenta, which provides a supplement to the growing baby. Dehydration can lead to low amniotic fluid, low milk production, and even premature labor. Dry mouth, pain in the brain, and pale urine are some of the symptoms that you are not drinking enough fluids.
Be sure to drink plenty of water during the evening meal before sunrise and during the evening meal iftar. Similarly, it is good to drink foods that are high in water to stay hydrated, such as fresh ground foods. Try not to eat this delicious food as it may increase your thirst.
Check the serving size
You should not eat too much food during Iftar as it can pamper yourself and put pressure on your body. Overeating can cause acid reflux and weight gain, especially if you eat a lot of foods that are high in sugar and salt. You should eat as much as you feel full, and this will prevent weight gain or discomfort after eating.
Get some exercise to stay healthy
During Ramadan, it is often tempting to sit quietly most of the day in an attempt to balance one’s energy. However, avoiding exercise can make you even more frustrated, all things being equal. Maintaining a steady pace through moderate activity can help boost your energy throughout the day and reduce the risk of back pain, lock-ups, and overweight during pregnancy. During pregnancy, you can participate in active walking, swimming, and proper yoga or Pilates. It is advisable to do this about an hour before sunrise.
Be careful not to overwork yourself during exercise, even if you occasionally exercise outside of pregnancy.