Ramadan: seven tips for navigating weight loss treatment during fasting, according to a GP
Muslims across the UK are preparing to fast for Ramadan 🌙
- Millions of people around the world will be preparing to observe the holy month of Ramadan.
- Muslims across the UK will be preparing to fast each day, but for those on weight loss medications, there are some things to consider.
- Dr Anju Verma, GP and Lead for Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Service, shares seven tips for fasting during Ramadan whilst on weight loss medications.
With Ramadan set to start, Muslims across the UK will be preparing to fast each day for a month. However, for those observing the Ramadan fast who are among the 1.6 million people who use weight-loss medicines, this may come with a unique set of challenges.
To help navigate these, Dr Anju Verma, GP and Lead for Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Service, has developed seven practical tips to help navigate this period safely and effectively. Her expert guidance addresses crucial areas from safely timing medication and prioritising nutrient-dense meals to managing hydration and understanding side effects.
How to use weight loss medications during Ramadan safely
Avoid increasing dosage
Dr Verma recommends avoiding altering your medication dosage during Ramadan, as side effects can become most pronounced when increasing this. She said: “Some of the side effects of weight loss treatment, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, increase the risk of dehydration and can be more challenging to deal with if you’re fasting.”
Consider medication timings
When you are taking your treatment, consider timing it just before breaking your fast, as the effects won’t be felt until after you’ve had time to eat. Dr Verma said: “This allows you to have a more substantial meal and get vital nutrients on board before the appetite suppression kicks in.”
Prioritise nutrient-dense meals
When breaking your fast pre-dawn, try to include slow-release energy foods on your plate, such as oats, wholegrain bread or brown rice and aim to fill half your plate with vegetables to get enough vitamins and minerals. Dr Verma said: “Many Muslims traditionally open their fast by eating dates with water before a meal, which is a great source of fibre and energy from the natural sugars they contain.”
Remember portion sizes
Weight loss treatments slow digestion, so avoid large, heavy meals and pay attention to the amount of food you eat at Suhoor and Iftar. Dr Verma said: “Keeping fried, oily and sugary foods to a minimum will help maintain balance in nutrition and reduce chances of side effects.”
Stay hydrated
When permitted, make sure you drink lots of water and include fluid-rich foods such as yoghurt, soup, cucumber and watermelon to help you stay hydrated. Dr Verma said: “Some people may opt to take electrolytes to help replenish essential minerals lost during fasting and to aid overall hydration.”
Ensure extra time to rest
One of the hardest things to deal with is the lack of sleep after waking for pre-dawn meals and prayers. Dr Verma recommends a 30 to 40-minute power snooze at lunch to help refresh you. Any longer than 40 minutes, and you may go into a deep sleep and wake up feeling groggy.
Managing side effects
If you experience side effects such as severe nausea or dehydration during fasting, Dr Verma recommends you consult with your clinician about lowering your dose. She said: “In some cases, temporarily pausing the treatment may be required. But many of our Muslim patients are able to continue with weight loss treatment throughout Ramadan by making sensible adjustments.”
You can find out more about how to have a safe and healthy Ramadan at NHS Black Country.