Soon, Muslims around the world will observe the fasting month of Ramadan. Fasting is synonymous with abstaining from food and drink for more than 12 hours. This can bring benefits, both physically and mentally. However, it can also lead to several health issues if not done properly.

Some possible health issues include:

1. Dehydration: Dehydration can occur because the body does not receive fluid intake for more than 12 hours. If physical activity during fasting is of high intensity, the risk of dehydration can be greater. Symptoms usually include feeling weak, dizzy, and having a dry mouth. To overcome this, make sure to drink plenty of water during Suhoor (pre-dawn meal).

2. Headache: The causes of headaches during fasting can vary from person to person. However, this condition can occur along with dehydration, fatigue, or lack of sleep. The pain is a reaction from the brain when the body experiences hunger and lack of fluids, causing a disruption in glucose and blood supply to the brain. If the brain does not get enough energy, headaches or a feeling of lightheadedness can occur. To overcome this, make sure to consume a balanced nutritious diet during Ramadan and get enough sleep at night for 6-8 hours.

3. Increased Stomach Acid: Hunger can trigger an increase in stomach acid. Especially if fasting is not preceded by eating Suhoor. Symptoms experienced are pain in the pit of the stomach, nausea, vomiting, and a burning sensation in the chest area. Besides hunger, an increase in stomach acid can be triggered by the habit of sleeping or lying down after eating Suhoor. To overcome this, it is recommended to consume healthy and less gassy food during Suhoor.

4. Constipation: Constipation during fasting can be caused by several things, such as a lack of fiber intake, lack of physical activity, or insufficient fluid needs. To prevent this, it is advisable to fulfill daily fluid needs, exercise regularly, and consume high-fiber foods such as vegetables and fruits.

5. Low Blood Pressure: Low blood pressure can occur due to limited fluid and salt intake during fasting. Symptoms experienced are feeling weak, dizzy especially when changing positions from sitting to standing, excessive sweating, and even causing a feeling like fainting. To overcome this, it is advisable to increase fluid intake and consume foods that contain enough salt.

6. Bad Breath: Lack of fluid intake during fasting can cause a decrease in saliva production, causing the mouth to feel dry. Therefore, dead cells and food residues will accumulate in the mouth and cause an unpleasant odor. To overcome this, it is advisable to brush your teeth regularly after Suhoor and after breaking the fast.

7. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels can occur if the sugar intake into the body is not sufficient. Especially if it is not preceded by eating Suhoor before starting fasting. Hypoglycemia is characterized by a weak body, restlessness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. To avoid this, it is advisable not to skip eating Suhoor and consume foods that contain carbohydrates during the Suhoor meal.

Author: dr. Ninda Ariesta ( Dokter Pelayanan Medis PRAMITA Lab Cabang  Cik Di Tiro Yogyakarta)