Fasting has been around for ages, serving various purposes like religious, spiritual, or health-related goals. It's well-known for its positive effects on metabolism and overall health, but there are some important differences between Ramadan fasting and intermittent fasting (IF).

In a chat with a Lifestyle Magazine, Shivani Sharma, a Dietitian and Clinical Nutritionist at Milann Fertility Hospital in Bengaluru, shared her insights.

• Intermittent Fasting (IF) involves a specific schedule, such as 16:8 or 18:6, where you fast for 16 or 18 hours and eat during a 6 or 8-hour window. During the fasting hours, you can still have water and drinks without calories. This approach allows for some freedom in what you eat when it's time to break your fast. Many people choose IF for reasons like managing their weight, improving metabolic health, and promoting a longer life.

• Ramadan fasting, which takes place during the sacred month of Ramadan, is a more rigorous practice lasting 29 to 30 days. It involves total abstention from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. The fast is ended at sunset with a meal called Iftar and starts again at dawn with Suhoor. Unlike intermittent fasting, Ramadan fasting is deeply spiritual, emphasizing self-control, thankfulness, and devotion.

While both practices include times of not eating or drinking, the main distinction is in how they're organized, their goals, and their effects on health.

Advantages of both types of fasting for your health:

1. Both types of fasting can help with weight loss and fat burning by cutting down on calorie intake and boosting fat metabolism. Intermittent fasting (IF) offers a more structured way to manage weight, while fasting during Ramadan can cause weight changes based on what you eat during Iftar and Suhoor.
2. Research indicates that fasting can help stabilize blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, which lowers the chances of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. IF is especially noted for its positive effects on glucose metabolism, and Ramadan fasting can also be beneficial for those who don’t have existing metabolic issues.
3. Fasting activates autophagy, a natural process where the body cleans out damaged cells and creates new ones.
4. Taking a break from eating allows the digestive system to rest, which can improve gut health and reduce bloating. However, indulging in heavy meals after fasting, particularly during Ramadan, might sometimes cause digestive issues.
5. Both fasting methods can boost focus, cognitive abilities, and emotional strength. Ramadan fasting encourages mindfulness, while IF is associated with better brain health and mood regulation.

Helpful hint for clinical practice:

Shivani Sharma wrapped things up by saying, “Both fasting methods have their perks, but the real secret is mindful eating. Staying hydrated and choosing nutrient-rich foods are super important to avoid tiredness and dehydration during Ramadan, especially for those with diabetes, pregnant women, or anyone with chronic health issues. No matter which way you choose to fast, if you do it right, it can really benefit both your body and mind.”

Read Also: Blood Donation's Hidden Health Benefits: Reducing Diabetes Risk and Boosting Heart Health

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!