America News Agency

Dr. Uzel emphasized that diabetic patients should be cautious while fasting. “The type of diabetes is important. In Type 1 diabetes, fasting is not very feasible because intensive insulin therapy requires regular meals, which is not compatible with the nature of fasting. However, in Type 2 diabetes, since it involves caloric restriction, fasting may be advantageous,” he said.

Effect on immunity

Speaking about the relationship between fasting and immunity, he stated: “I do not think fasting has a significant effect in protecting against infectious diseases. We already know that people who eat healthily and exercise regularly experience fewer infections.”

Metabolism and prolonged hunger

Evaluating the effects of prolonged fasting on metabolism, he said: “If muscle loss occurs, metabolism may slow down because it depends on muscle mass. The human body adapts to long periods of hunger; we already observe a slight slowdown in metabolism during extended fasting.”

Heart health and sudden eating

He warned that eating too quickly during Ramadan may trigger a heart attack: “If there is a soft plaque in the heart, sudden stress may cause it to rupture and lead to a heart attack. Special care should be taken during the first 2–3 hours after iftar.”

Risk of dehydration

Referring to dehydration in hot weather, he said: “During the summer months this becomes a serious problem. Those who use diuretics or blood pressure medications should consume more fluids between iftar and sahur.”

Energy drinks and coffee

“We do not recommend excessive consumption of energy drinks. Their high calorie content and high levels of caffeine and taurine create an extra burden on health. Excessive coffee intake may also cause palpitations; metabolism varies from person to person,” he added.

Risks according to working conditions

He noted differences between desk workers and those engaged in heavy labor: “Desk workers burn fewer calories and are less affected by environmental factors. Those working actively outdoors expend more energy and are more influenced by environmental conditions. Everyone should fast according to their health status; if health is not suitable, religious compensation is possible.”

Stomach and reflux complaints

He stated that heartburn and reflux complaints may increase during Ramadan: “A healthy stomach has a low pH and its cells renew at certain intervals. Prolonged fasting may increase heartburn and acidity.”

Fasting and popular nutrition trends

Emphasizing that detox and one-meal diet trends on social media should not be confused with fasting, he warned: “Fasting is an act of worship. The others are health-oriented methods. Do not start practices without scientific basis without consulting your doctor.”

Situations requiring breaking the fast

“If there is a medical emergency, for example a condition requiring intravenous treatment, the fast should be broken. Health comes first, and our religion has also established this,” he said.

Recommendations for chronic patients

He emphasized that chronic patients should not fast without a doctor’s approval: “In cases such as organ transplantation, intensive insulin therapy, or heart failure, fasting may not be beneficial and may even be harmful. In such situations, consult your physician.”

Recommendations for a healthy Ramadan

Sharing his advice on observing Ramadan properly both spiritually and health-wise, Dr. Burak Uzel concluded: “Do not eat too much at once at iftar; plan the calorie intake at iftar and sahur. It is important not to rush to food due to hunger. With good planning, the month of Ramadan can be beneficial for health. I wish you a blessed Ramadan.”