The 8 Benefits of Fasting

Fasting observed during Ramadan can trigger significant changes in many vital systems within the body. Emphasizing that the consumption of no food or liquid for an average of 13 hours over one month may have certain effects on the digestive system, Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat, Gastroenterology Specialist at Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi Hospital, stated: "Fasting creates rest by contributing to reduced activity in all organs that form part of the digestive system. However, it is important not to focus solely on the benefits of this period, to remember that there may be certain risks, and to approach the fasting period consciously."

As the digestive system rests and organs are cleansed, they begin to function more efficiently. Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat, Gastroenterology Specialist at Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi Hospital, stressed that the stomach and intestines, as well as the liver and pancreas, will benefit from rest during this period, and noted: "Beyond these benefits, we must also mention certain risks such as dehydration resulting from unmet daily fluid requirements. At the same time, in patients with stomach conditions such as reflux, gastritis and ulcers, abdominal pain and stomach problems may increase with fasting, or those with chronic diseases may experience worsening symptoms as they cannot take their necessary medications."

Reflux patients should consult their doctor about fasting
Stressing the importance of not putting overall health at risk while fasting and particularly cautioning certain patient groups, Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat said: "For example, poor nutrition during pregnancy adversely affects the baby's development. For this reason, the iftar and sahur meals of pregnant women who fast should be both balanced and nutritious. While heavy kidney disease patients are not advised to fast due to dehydration, mild cases may be permitted provided they drink plenty of water at iftar and sahur."

Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat stressed that patients with gastritis, ulcers, reflux and chronic diseases should definitely not fast without consulting their doctor, stating: "Prolonged fasting can increase stomach acid, leading to problems such as ulcers and bleeding. For this reason, reflux patients should pay close attention to what they eat during this period. Consuming heavy and rich meals suddenly at iftar after prolonged fasting can increase digestive complaints."

Lying down after eating increases reflux
Highlighting the importance of avoiding heavy pastries at sahur to maintain satiety, Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat noted: "The most problematic situation for reflux is lying down immediately after eating. When you lie down after eating, stomach acid can travel upward through the food pipe, causing various discomforts. Patients suffering from chronic constipation should also be very careful," Polat stated. "These patients should pay attention to adequate water consumption and choose foods rich in fiber. To get through Ramadan comfortably, they can consume an olive oil-based vegetable dish at iftar and, at sahur, a bowl of yogurt with bran, oats, flaxseed and dried apricots or prunes," he said.

Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Zülfikar Polat listed 8 benefits of fasting.

1. Fasting forces the body to use fats as an energy source, which accelerates fat burning. By balancing blood sugar and reducing insulin, fasting also brings fat levels in the blood to where they should be. As insulin decreases, cholesterol is also brought under control.
2. Fasting reduces insulin levels, which also increases the secretion of growth hormones.
3. Beyond all these benefits, it also aids weight control, strengthens the heart and can reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. While fasting, the time spent eating is restricted, so total calorie intake decreases and weight loss occurs.
5. Fasting has the property of reducing inflammation in the body.
6. Fasting rests the body and supports cell renewal, which strengthens the immune system.
7. Fasting contributes to spiritual peace, which psychologically supports relaxation and reduces stress.
8. Enduring hunger and thirst strengthens personal willpower, contributing to becoming a more patient person.