15 Aug 2024 | 3 mins

Breaking barriers: Reflections on Ramadan fasting

Article by: Dr Qaiser Malik

As we enter into the last third of the blessed month of Ramadan, it has become almost normal practice for me to be up at the crack of dawn to begin the fast with an early morning meal, followed by the subsequent breaking of the fast at sunset.

It can be quite a challenge to decide what to eat in the early hours of the morning, when one is barely awake. However, hydration is key to ensuring a pleasant day ahead. I usually have a yoghurt, perhaps a fried egg and some sourdough – trying to avoid the leftovers of last night’s dinner!

Fasting is an act of devotion and worship to our creator and the intention to fast is an important part of the process. Most Muslims will make the intention to fast at the beginning of the month and will endeavour to abstain from all food intake from dawn until dusk. While the main reason for fasting is purely as an act of worship, there are many benefits to observing and abstaining from food and drink – this serves as a constant reminder to remember those who are less fortunate than us.

This year, Ramadan has served as a poignant reminder of the food insecurity that many people around the world suffer, with the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The breaking of the fast has been difficult for many of us as we are blessed with plenty of food and drink while many people around the world are struggling to fulfil their basic needs.

Reflection

Ramadan is also a time of reflection and an opportunity for Muslims to get closer to God and to partake in more godly and religious activities. This includes additional prayers and recitation of the Quran, the religious text of Islam. Once again, many of us have found ourselves observing nightly prayers with our thoughts and emotions focused on those who are suffering.

As a doctor, I often get asked about the requirement for fasting if an individual is taking medication or who is unwell. The religion of Islam is designed to limit hardship and therefore it is prohibited to fast for the unwell, infirm and for anyone in need of regular medication. The obligation of fasting can be replaced by donating to charity if one is able.

Concentration levels

Another important consideration of fasting is concentration levels and being able to work. Personally, I do not find any particular issue and as we are all aware, many new fad diets involve periods of fasting and studies have demonstrated that there is very little, if any, effect on concentration levels. My advice to a fasting doctor would be to try and take regular breaks during work hours. If fasting starts to affect your concentration or ability to work to your usual pattern, then it may be beneficial to discuss this with your line manager. I’ve also found that many colleagues are understanding and aware of the obligation of Ramadan and fasting.

From a personal perspective, the most difficult aspect physically with regard to fasting is the lack of sleep due to nightly prayers, as well as the early morning awakening to consume some food (known as sehri). Many colleagues often take annual leave towards the end of Ramadan to be able to partake in extra supplication. The month of Ramadan culminates in a celebratory festival, known as Eid Ul Fitr, a day to spend with family, exchange gifts and enjoy lovely food.

2024 will always be remembered for the desperate situation in Gaza, as well as for those suffering in conflicts throughout the world, but regardless of religious belief, we pray together for an end to suffering for all and a speedy restoration of peace.

Article by:

Dr Qaiser Malik is a consultant MSK radiologist and Clinical Director of Radiology at Mid and South Essex NHS Trust and the lead medical appraiser for Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital.

Dr Malik graduated from Imperial College School of Medicine. He is an Honorary Senior Lecturer for University College London Medical School and the Clinical Lead for the East 2 Imaging Network. Qaiser also served on the RCR’s Scientific Programme Committee for seven years and was previously the RCR Newsletter editor for two years.

Dr Malik has a keen interest in musculoskeletal MRI and ultrasound (US), including US-guided procedures. He also specialises in imaging and treating sports injuries and has been involved in the care of elite athletes.

Dr Malik's tenure as Medical Director, Membership and Business at the RCR is 2023-2026.