Nutrition and Health Tips during Fasting for Ramadan

Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims around the world, marked by fasting from dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar). During fasting hours, no food or drink is consumed, and the focus is placed on spiritual reflection, discipline, and community. Because of the long hours without fluids or nourishment, it is especially important to think carefully about hydration, nutrition, and overall wellbeing during this time.

A common question we receive is whether IV drip therapy is compatible with fasting. In general, IV drips that provide fluids, vitamins, or nutrition are considered to break the fast and are therefore avoided during daylight hours. However, necessary medical treatment may still be permitted depending on individual circumstances and religious interpretation. If you observe Ramadan, it is always advisable to seek guidance from a trusted scholar alongside medical advice.

For this reason, many people who choose IV therapy during Ramadan prefer to schedule treatment after sunset, once the fast has ended.

Eating and Drinking Well During Ramadan:

What you eat at Iftar and Suhoor has a direct impact on energy levels, hydration, and how well your body copes with fasting the following day. The aim is to choose foods that release energy slowly, support muscle recovery and healing, and help you feel full and hydrated for longer.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast

After a long day of fasting, it is best to start gently. Water helps rehydrate the body, and dates provide a natural source of quick energy.

Once you move on to your main meal, balance is key.

Complex carbohydrates provide slow-release energy that helps prevent energy crashes. These include:

• Brown rice
• Wholegrain couscous
• Wholemeal bread or roti
• Oats
• Sweet potatoes
• Lentils, chickpeas, and beans

Protein supports muscle repair, immune function, and healing. Good sources include:

• Chicken or turkey
• Fish such as salmon or tuna
• Eggs
• Lentils, chickpeas, and other pulses
• Greek yoghurt and dairy products

Healthy fats help with satiety, hormone balance, and absorption of fat soluble vitamins. These include:

• Olive oil
• Avocado
• Nuts and seeds
• Nut butters

A well balanced Iftar meal might include grilled chicken or fish with brown rice or sweet potato, vegetables drizzled with olive oil, and a side of lentils or salad. For a lighter option, vegetable soup followed by eggs on wholegrain toast can be easier to digest while still nourishing.

Try to limit heavily fried, very salty, or highly processed foods, as these can increase thirst and leave you feeling sluggish the next day.

Suhoor: The Pre-Dawn Meal

Suhoor is essential for sustaining energy and hydration throughout the fasting day. The focus should be on slow digesting foods and adequate fluids.

Complex carbohydrates at Suhoor help you feel fuller for longer. Examples include:

• Oats or porridge
• Wholegrain bread or toast
• Brown rice
• Quinoa

Protein at Suhoor helps reduce hunger and supports recovery. Good options include:

• Eggs
• Greek yoghurt
• Cottage cheese
• Nut butters
• Protein rich smoothies with yoghurt or milk

Healthy fats help slow digestion and improve satiety. These include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Avocado
• Olive oil

Examples of nourishing Suhoor meals include porridge topped with nuts and seeds, wholegrain toast with eggs and avocado, Greek yoghurt with oats and berries, or a smoothie made with yoghurt, oats, fruit, and nut butter.

Hydration is just as important. Drinking water gradually between Iftar and sleep is more effective than drinking large amounts at once. Fruits and vegetables with high water content can also support hydration.

How IV Drip Therapy May Help Outside Fasting Hours

Despite best efforts, some people still struggle to eat or drink enough during the limited eating window, particularly if appetite is low or sleep is disrupted. When clinically appropriate, IV drip therapy after Iftar may support rehydration and general wellbeing during Ramadan.

This can be especially helpful for vulnerable individuals such as older adults, people with diabetes, pregnant individuals, or those who experience frequent headaches, fatigue, or dehydration while fasting. Any treatment should always be based on a medical assessment and tailored to the individual.

Nutrients commonly included in IV therapy outside fasting hours may include:

• Fluids and electrolytes to help restore hydration
• B vitamins to support normal energy metabolism
• Vitamin C for general immune support
• Magnesium, which may help with muscle tension or headaches

Evening IV Appointments During Ramadan

Effect Doctors Clinic in Westfield London offers IV drip therapy after sunset throughout Ramadan, allowing patients to access treatment outside fasting hours. All care is delivered by qualified medical professionals following a clinical consultation to ensure treatment is safe, appropriate, and aligned with individual health needs.

Ramadan Mubarak from the Effect Doctors team.