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A medical expert and Fellow, College West African Surgeon (FCWAS), Ahmed Omilana, has stressed that besides being a pillar of Islam, Ramadan fasting has enormous health benefits for the faithful.
At the annual Ramadan lecture series organised by the Islamic Mission Organisation International (IMO Inter.) in Ire Akari Estate, Isolo, Lagos, the executive chairman/chief executive officer of Fitplus Health Care Group, spoke on the science and practice of fasting in harmony with Allah’s commandments, noting that intermittent fasting can help improve insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to transport glucose more efficiently from the bloodstream to yourself.
From Sahor to Iftar, he admonished Muslims to refrain from gobbling heavy meals and ice cold beverages during the fasting period as this may harm the body and cause severe health conditions.
“Fasting keeps blood sugar level steady and boosts insulin sensitivity. Medically, insulin resistance in the body is a key factor in the development of Type 2 diabetes (cardiovascular diseases).
“Fasting helps improve insulin sensitivity through efficient blood sugar control. A study found that intermittent fasting (three days per week) reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity which occurs during fasting.”
Omilana warned that during Sahor and Iftar, fasting Muslims must avoid gluttonous habits by consuming excessive food and drinks even as the temperature reaches its peak in the daytime.
He added that fasting promotes fat utilisation as an energy source.
“As a result, during fasting, your body taps into stored fat reserves thereby aiding weight loss.”
He asserted that Ramadan fasting is essentially Allah’s commandment for the glorification and devotional worship and warned against over eating and unwholesome wrong deeds or creeds which may affect their health and avert the benefits gained during fasting.
“We should keep our food and drink intake at a moderate level in size and variety which will help us stay in God’s consciousness and physically and mentally active in our spiritual worship and prayer every time to attract multiple blessings and unlock heavenly rewards and opportunities.
“Also, fasting has been linked to levels of inflammation which contributes to better overall health and may reduce the risk of medical conditions like heart disease, cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Fasting enhances brain function by clearing out damaged cells and toxins in the body. It may also protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
“Fasting is a Holy Month to keep ourselves in God’s love and maintain a good conscience towards everyone; as such, you should embrace a safe, healthy fasting approach that suits your well-being to avoid medical conditions.
“It is advisable to consult qualified health care professionals before embarking on any periodic fasting, especially if you have any health concerns. Quran principles taught us that contented life and genuine happiness come to those who are conscious of their spiritual needs, while fasting serves as a spiritual regimen for the body and mind drawing us closer to Allah, thereby strengthen devotional life, discipline, empathy and religious commitment,” Omilana said.
In his remarks, President of IMO International, Kola Afolabi, told the audience that fasting is a period to engage in significant prayer and worship through daily Quran recitation (Tafsir) to maintain a good conscience.
The Ramadan lecture was attended by a cross section of Muslim faithful from the Mainland and Island while assorted palliatives were doled out to the congregation.
