Fasting Without A Healthy Diet Is At Risk of Increasing Body Weight

A recent study has highlighted that fasting without a healthy diet can increase one’s weight. During the 30 days of fasting, scheduled eating patterns during iftar and sahur have changed the body’s circadian rhythm, causing adaptations that have an impact on health.

Nor Eka Noviani, S.Gz., M.PH, a lecturer in the Nutrition program at UNISA Yogyakarta, explained that the body’s system adapts to the scheduled diet during Ramadan. “Many activities at night change the body’s sleeping hours and biological rhythms,” she said. This can disrupt sleep quality and cause changes in the body’s metabolism.

However, it’s not just physical factors that play a role. Human psychology and emotions also play an important role during this holy month. “The feeling of wanting to eat all the delicious dishes is a factor that affects eating patterns during the fasting month,” says Novi. “Visiting relatives also opens up opportunities for overeating.”

Overeating during the fasting month and Eid al-Fitr celebrations not only increases health risks, but can also disrupt overall body function.

After Eid, various diseases are at risk due to changes in diet and lifestyle. Novi warns about the increased risk of infections and degenerative diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

To avoid these negative impacts, it is important to maintain a balanced and healthy pattern. Novi recommends the “4J” principle: time, type, amount, and processing method. “Scheduled meals, choosing the right type of food, controlling the amount of consumption, and healthy processing methods are very important,” she says.

With awareness of healthy patterns and good emotional control, it is hoped that people can face the fasting month and Eid al-Fitr celebrations better, maintain a healthy body and avoid the risk of disease.