E-Paper
Sign In
Aster Clinic: Nourish your body, honour your spirit
Practical health guidance from Aster specialists to help you fast safely, sustain energy, and maintain overall health throughout Ramadan
- PUBLISHED: Thu 19 Feb 2026, 10:39 AM
Ramadan is a sacred journey of faith, reflection, and self-discipline. As you fast from dawn to dusk, your body works quietly alongside your spirit. Supporting it with mindful choices helps you move through the month with strength, balance, and well-being - so you can fully experience that Ramadan feeling.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewed focus on what truly matters, including your health. As routines shift with fasting, changes in sleep patterns, and altered meal timings, it becomes even more important to understand how your body is responding. Preparing ahead can help you observe the month with greater energy, balance, and peace of mind.
Recommended For You
Our Ramadan Ready Health Check packages are thoughtfully designed to support your well-being during this special time. Through essential screenings and consultations, we help assess key health markers related to nutrition, hydration, gut health, blood sugar levels, and overall wellness. These checks offer valuable insights that empower you to make informed decisions about your diet, lifestyle, and daily habits while fasting.
Whether you are looking to maintain your health, manage an existing condition, or simply begin the month feeling confident and prepared, taking a proactive approach can make a meaningful difference. This Ramadan, prioritise your well-being so you can focus on what truly matters - faith, family, and community, with strength and reassurance.
Fast Smart: Everyday Health Tips for Ramadan
“Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, but your physical well-being needs equal attention,” says Dr Firdaus Manzar, General Practitioner at Aster Clinics. "Preparation is key. Gradually reduce caffeine intake before Ramadan to avoid withdrawal headaches. During non-fasting hours, prioritise hydration and balanced meals rather than overeating at Iftar. Include complex carbohydrates and protein at Suhoor to sustain energy throughout the day. Adequate sleep is equally important, as disrupted sleep patterns can affect immunity and focus. Most importantly, listen to your body – persistent dizziness, fatigue, or signs of dehydration should never be ignored."
Gut in Balance: Preventing Ramadan Digestive Woes
“Digestive discomfort is often the result of sudden dietary changes during fasting,” explains Dr Jayakumar B Kannan, Consultant Gastroenterology at Aster Clinic, Muteena (Deira). “After long fasting hours, overeating or choosing fried and spicy foods can trigger acidity, bloating, and reflux. Break your fast gently with dates and water, followed by light, balanced meals rich in fibre and lean protein. Eating slowly and controlling portion sizes allows the digestive system to adjust. Limiting carbonated drinks and late-night heavy meals can significantly reduce discomfort. Those with pre-existing conditions such as gastritis or IBS should seek medical advice before fasting.”
Fasting with Diabetes: Doing It Safely
“Fasting with diabetes requires careful planning and medical supervision,” advises Dr Santhosh Abraham, Specialist in Endocrinology at Aster Diabetes 360 Care Clinic, Qusais (Damascus St.). “Not all individuals with diabetes are advised to fast, so a pre-Ramadan assessment is essential. Blood glucose monitoring does not break the fast and should be done regularly. Suhoor should include complex carbohydrates and protein to maintain steady glucose levels, while sugary beverages and refined carbohydrates at Iftar should be avoided. Medication or insulin doses may need adjustment. Any symptoms such as sweating, confusion, or extreme weakness require immediate breaking of the fast and medical attention.”
Fuel Your Fast: Eat Right from Suhoor to Iftar
“A well-balanced plate can transform your Ramadan experience,” says Jaseera Maniparambil, Clinical Dietitian at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai (AJMC). “Suhoor should focus on slow-digesting carbohydrates such as oats or whole grains, paired with protein and healthy fats to prolong satiety. At Iftar, begin with dates and water, then include vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to restore nutrients without overwhelming digestion. Limit fried foods and excess sugar, which can lead to fatigue and weight gain."
Healthy and Happy Ramadan Bowl
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
½ cup grilled chicken or chickpeas
½ cup cucumber, chopped
½ cup cherry tomatoes
1 handful spinach
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Pinch of salt and pepper
2 dates, chopped
Method:
Layer the quinoa or brown rice in a bowl as the base.
Add the grilled chicken or chickpeas for lean protein.
Top with fresh vegetables and chopped dates for fibre and natural sweetness.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Toss gently and enjoy a balanced, energising Iftar bowl.
Empower your wellness journey with Aster. Your health, our priority.
For appointments call us on 04 4400500 or download myAster app.